Was the correct sentence given?

Dear Sir,

I would like to comment on an article in last week's Chronicle about the six-month jail sentence for someone who assaulted a paramedic during his duties.

While appalled at the behaviour of the perpetrator of this act, I wonder if the sentence is the correct one.

Being in jail for this time with no realistic opportunity for counselling or rehabilitation does not seem to do either the victim or convicted any long-term service.

A non-custodial sentence could be a better use of public funds as well as providing more opportunity for restorative justice.

Unpaid work with appropriate restrictions of movement might be just as effective a deterrent as shown by your paper's coverage of those not being able to comply with these punishments.

The important issue to me is the perpetrator being confronted by the consequences of his action and this is far better done in the community that behind secure walls.

Yours faithfully,

(DR) PETER HIRST

Middlewich.