07 November 2023 , 14:08
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The family of murdered Zara Aleena claimed victory today (Tuesday, November 07) after new laws were set out in the King’s Speech which would mean killers would be forced to attend their sentencing.
Aspiring lawyer Zara was brutally killed by Jordan McSweeney in July last year as she walked home from a night out. McSweeney, 31, failed to attend his sentencing, where he was initially given 38 years in jail – a move which denied the family the chance to read their victim impact statements to him.
Today King Charles – in the first monarch’s annual speech to be given by a monarch since 1951 – announced that convicted criminals will be made to face sentencing under new legislation. It also pledged to give tougher sentencing to the most serious offender, a move backed by her aunt Farah Naz but described as “regrettable” as it came days after McSweeney’s sentence was reduced to 33 years. The sentence was cut despite him walking out halfway through his own appeal hearing.
Zara's aunt Farah Naz has been calling for change (PA)Ms Naz said: “We applaud the legal changes outlined in the King's Speech today, which align with some of the initiatives we've championed through our campaigns. The mandate for criminals to attend their sentencing is a welcome step, and we hope it's implemented in a sustainable manner with the support of the legal community, prison staff, and probation officers.
“We are resolutely behind and pleased with the new ruling to introduce more stringent sentencing for rape and sexually motivated murder. This sends a resounding message to potential offenders and serves as a potent deterrent. It is regrettable that such measures weren't in place in Zara's case, where, ironically, the man who murdered her received a reduction in his minimum sentence just days ago.
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McSweeney's jail term was cut despite him walking out of his own appeal hearing (PA)“Zara's legacy endures as a catalyst for reshaping how society safeguards women. She remains our guiding light, and we extend an invitation to all to stand alongside us in preserving her memory, supporting our campaigning efforts, and ensuring that the change she's initiated continues. Today, we remember her with gratitude for the impact she's had on making these crucial changes happen.”
The King’s Speech set out that judges would also be able to force convicted criminals into court for sentencing. A new Criminal Justice Bill would allow the use of 'reasonable force' to get them into the dock, with the option of adding two years to their sentence if they refuse.
The Mirror has campaigned for criminals to be made to face justice by attending sentencing. It is believed new laws will be introduced next year.