Criminals who break into people’s houses over Christmas could face a presumption of up to five years in jail under tough measures.
The Solicitor General Lesley Thomson QC unveiled the new prosecution policy to deal with housebreakers.
From today until January 6 next year, those reported to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) for being involved in housebreaking will be prosecuted under the new guidelines.
The offences are normally prosecuted on summary complaint or indictment, with summary cases carrying a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment.
Over the period of the initiative there will be a presumption that all cases involving a charge of theft by housebreaking, or housebreaking with intent to steal, or attempts of either of those offences, will be prosecuted on indictment.
This means that anyone accused of these crimes could face a higher penalty of up to five years behind bars.
Ms Thomson QC said: “Housebreaking is a traumatic experience for anyone. Apart from suffering the loss of cherished possessions, it can often leave people afraid of being in their own homes, particularly the elderly or those who live alone.
“We know people can be away at this time of year and many have expensive items stored in their homes making them a target for a break in. The loss of presents which people have often saved all year to buy is particularly sickening for those involved.”
She added: “We want to send out a strong deterrent message to housebreakers who cause misery for householders.
“I would also like to reassure the people of Scotland that housebreaking is something that we and the police take very seriously right across the country. The Crown Office and Police Scotland are working together to tackle housebreaking offences.”
The COPFS prosecution policy was devised following discussions with Police Scotland about the most effective way to tackle the problem of housebreaking.
Police Scotland will also today launch Operation RAC, a national campaign to tackle housebreaking across a number of areas in Scotland.
Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Mawsonsaid: “As part of our commitment to keeping people safe we have acknowledged the need for a more targeted approach to tackling housebreaking in a number of areas across the country.
“The launch of Operation RAC will see dedicated resources deployed throughout Scotland.
“We are delighted to be involved in this initiative during the holiday season and the public can be reassured of the Crown Office and Police Scotland commitment to making your area a safer place to live.
“Our focus on housebreaking will go on long after the festive season. We will continue to work alongside our partners at COPFS to bring anyone involved to justice.”