Detention and training order (under 18)

Who is it issued by and how can I contact them?

This sentence is given by a youth (magistrates’) court or Crown Court. You can contact the relevant court directly but it might be better to talk to your Youth Offending Team.

Does it involve guilt?

Yes.

Is it recorded on the Police National Computer (PNC)?

Yes.

Is it classed as a conviction?

Yes.

How long will it be on my record?

It will remain on the PNC indefinitely and will be used in any future criminal proceedings.

When does it become spent?

Detention and training orders are treated as ‘prison’ sentences for the purposes of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Over 4 years or a public protection sentence                              Never spent
More than 30 months and less than (or equal to) 4 years        Sentence + 3 ½ years
More than 6 months and less than (or equal to) 30 months   Sentence + 2 years
Less than (or equal to) 6 months                                                    Sentence + 18 months

When do I have to declare it?

Before it is spent you have to declare it, when asked, by employers and financial institutions. According to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, after this conviction is spent you don’t have to disclose unless it is for an occupation which is exempt from the Act, like working with children.

Is it disclosed on DBS checks?

The basic disclosure will show only unspent convictions. Standard and enhanced disclosure will disclose a custodial sentence even after it is spent.

What guidance is there on fair process?

• This sentence is only available for offenders aged between 12 and 17 and the length of a DTO will be between four months and two years.
• Sentencing Council guidelines are here
• National Standards for Youth Justice Services can be downloaded here.

Do I have the right to appeal and what is the process?

GOV.UK information on appealing a court decision can be found here.

What are the implications for life in the community?

The second part of the sentence is spent in the community during which you are supervised by the local youth offending team and need to comply with the terms of your contract.