Posted by Sam Patrick
on April 12, 2025
Oh, the United Kingdom—a land renowned for its rich history, esteemed institutions, and, of course, its impeccable justice system. But beneath the powdered wigs and gavel bangs lies a system that seems to have forgotten one tiny detail: women exist. Let's embark on a journey through the UK's criminal justice landscape, shall we?
Arresting Realities: The Gender Divide
In the 2023/24 fiscal year, the police in England and Wales managed to conduct a whopping 720,500 arrests. Of these, a mere 16% involved females. Now, before we start planning a parade in their honor, let's remember that this statistic has remained "stable" over the past three years.
Prison Populations: Where Are All the Women?
Fast forward to 2024, and the prison census reveals that out of 91,504 inmates in England and Wales, only 3,635 are women. That's about 4%. Given that women make up roughly half the population, one might wonder if the justice system is operating on some outdated "boys' club" membership policy.
Sentencing: Because Equality is Overrated
Now, let's talk sentences. As of June 2022, 17% of females and 7% of males were serving sentences of less than 12 months. So, if you're a woman who committed a crime, congratulations! You'll be out just in time to catch the latest season of your favourite show.
Remand: The VIP Waiting List
Being on remand means you're awaiting trial or sentencing. In June 2022, 5% of the remanded prison population were female. This "exclusive" club has seen a 47% increase in members over the past five years. Clearly, women are just lining up to be part of this elite group.
The "One-Size-Fits-All" Approach to Female Offenders
The UK's approach to female offenders is akin to trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. The female prison population has seen a 10% increase over the past year, compared to a 5% rise in the male estate. Yet, the system continues to apply the same standards to women as it does to men, ignoring the unique challenges women face.
Bias and Stereotypes: Because Who Needs Fair Trials?
Let's not forget the delightful presence of bias and stereotypes. From policing to sentencing, women are subjected to double standards and misogyny. Apparently, the justice system believes that if you're a woman, your life choices should come with a side of judgment.
The "Wicked Women" Trope: Because History Repeats Itself
The justice system's treatment of women often harks back to the "wicked women" trope. Women who commit crimes, especially those involving children, are frequently portrayed as monstrous figures. This narrative conveniently ignores the complexities of their circumstances, such as experiences of abuse or systemic inequality.
Rape Myths and Unconscious Bias: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
When it comes to sexual offenses, the justice system's handling is nothing short of a masterclass in victim-blaming. Rape myths and unconscious biases run rampant, making it harder for survivors to seek justice. But hey, who needs convictions when you can have a good ol' fashioned character assassination?
The Prison Industrial Complex: Because Profit Over People
The UK's prison population is on the rise, with projections indicating a 16% increase in the women's prison population by November 2027. But don't worry; this isn't a cause for concern. After all, more prisoners mean more profit, right?
The Justice System's "Feminine Touch"
In conclusion, the UK's criminal justice system is a shining example of how to systematically screw over women. From arrest to incarceration, every step is a testament to the patriarchy's enduring legacy. But hey, at least the system is consistent in its biases. Cheers to that!
