Offender’s costly decision highlights the value of Immediate Justice

An offender who refused to take part in the Immediate Justice scheme has ended up with a far tougher punishment.

The woman was offered the chance to complete an Immediate Justice community payback activity, following an altercation in a nightclub, which would have allowed her to take responsibility for her actions through unpaid work to improve the local area.

However, after declining the offer, the woman was prosecuted through the courts—where they received a much harsher sentence.

The incident occurred when the victim accidentally bumped into the offender on the dance floor of a local nightclub, prompting the offender to push her in response.

This caused the victim to fall backwards, hitting her head on a bar stool and suffering a serious head injury requiring stitches.

The offender later admitted her actions and expressed remorse, stating that she would never have pushed the victim had she realised the injury it would cause.

As a result, officers decided to deal with the case via a Conditional Caution, requiring her to pay £100 in compensation to the victim and complete Immediate Justice reparative work.

Despite repeated contact from police, the offender failed to complete these conditions.

As a result, the case was escalated to court, where on 4 February 2025 at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court, she was sentenced to 80 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay £200 in compensation—double the original amount.

Immediate Justice is a key part of Nottinghamshire’s approach to tackling antisocial behaviour and low-level crime.

The scheme ensures that offenders face swift, visible consequences, carrying out reparation work as soon as possible after their offence.

This could include litter picking, graffiti removal, or community clean-ups, directly addressing the impact of their behaviour.

By taking part in Immediate Justice, offenders not only make amends but avoid the risk of harsher penalties that could follow if they refuse to engage.

The scheme also reduces pressure on the criminal justice system by providing an effective alternative to court proceedings, helping to deliver justice more efficiently.

Had the offender accepted the Immediate Justice order, they would have completed their reparation within days.

Instead, they faced a prolonged court process and a more severe penalty—highlighting the clear benefits of engaging with the scheme.

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said: “Immediate Justice is about ensuring that those responsible for crime and antisocial behaviour face swift and meaningful consequences.

“This case shows exactly why it makes sense to take the opportunity to make amends when it is offered.

“Instead of quickly repairing the harm they caused, this individual chose to go through the courts and ended up with a much tougher outcome.

“Immediate Justice not only benefits communities but also offers offenders a chance to take responsibility in a way that is proportionate and constructive.

“The message is clear—those who refuse to engage will face tougher consequences.”

The success of Immediate Justice lies in its ability to deliver fast, effective consequences while reducing the burden on the criminal justice system.

Offenders who refuse to engage can face significantly harsher penalties in court, as demonstrated in this case.

Superintendent for Nottingham City Chris Pearson said: “Immediate Justice is a vital tool in tackling antisocial behaviour and low-level crime in Nottingham.

“This case demonstrates the importance of swift, visible consequences for offenders.

“By engaging with Immediate Justice, individuals have the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions in a meaningful way, while also making a positive contribution to the community.

“When offenders fail to comply, the courts will step in, often leading to far tougher penalties.

“The message is clear—Immediate Justice offers a fair and effective alternative, and we encourage those given the opportunity to take it seriously.”

Immediate Justice is taking place across Nottinghamshire, ensuring that those responsible for antisocial behaviour and low-level crime make a real, visible contribution to the communities they have impacted.

To report antisocial behaviour in your neighbourhood, call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or visit the web page linked below to report.

Report antisocial behaviour | Nottinghamshire Police

In an emergency, you should always call 999.