Government brings in tougher sentences to reduce mobile crime

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New penalties designed to deter criminals tempted to re-programme stolen mobile phones come into force tomorrow, as part of the government's continued efforts to reduce this type of activity.

Anyone involved with re-programming will now face up to five years in jail, an unlimited fine or both.

"Being robbed for your mobile is a harrowing and distressing experience that has happened to far too many of us and our children," said Home Secretary John Reid.

"Fighting crime and anti-social behaviour is Labour's priority. We are listening to our communities who are telling us that they want tough and innovative action to address their concerns - and we are committed to delivering for them."

Mobile phone theft continues to be a massive problem as devices become more attractive due to multimedia capabilities and the increasing amount of data people now store on handsets beyond just phone numbers.

Last year, the Mobile Industry Crime Action Forum (MCIF) joined forces with the big five UK operators to pledge that 80 per cent of mobiles reported as lost or stolen would be blocked within 48 hours - a promise it has lived up to according to an announcement made in parallel to Reid's tougher sentencing stance.

"I welcome the progress we have made so far, but we know there is more to do," Reid added.

"That is why Labour are working to remove the incentive to criminals by blocking stolen phones; why Labour have introduced the tough new sentences which come into effect tomorrow; and why we will now work with the industry and police to anticipate the crime for the future, so we can design out problems in the next generation of phones before they develop."

The success of the blocking initiative was echoed by Tim Goodwin of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), who said that the programme "demonstrates the industry's commitment to blocking stolen phones across all networks. I believe this ongoing support is playing a major part in our joint efforts to drive down mobile phone crime."

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