Compared to Probation, Reformative Training (RT) is a more severe punishment and is generally targeted at young offenders. What happens during reformative training and when will the courts impose RT instead of Probation? Here are 6 things to know about reformative training.

  1. Who can qualify for RT?

Any offender above 14 years old and below 21 years old can qualify for reformative training.

First time offenders between 14 years old and 16 years old would not qualify for RT. However, if he is a repeat offender between 14 years old and 16 years old and was previously sent to a juvenile rehabilitation centre, reformative training could apply.

  1. When will the courts impose reformative training instead of Probation?

The relevant factors the courts will consider when imposing RT includes:

  • The gravity of the offence;
  • The culpability of the offender;
  • The existence of antecedents;
  • The nature of the rehabilitation best suited for the offender;
  • The availability of familial support in the rehabilitative efforts; and
  • Any other special reasons or need for rehabilitationCourts are also required to call for a RT report (conducted by a Commissioner of Prisons) to assess the suitability of the offender for reformative training.
  1. What is the duration of RT?

The duration of RT usually for a period of minimum 6 months and up to 54 months.

  1. What happens during RT?

Unlike Probation, an offender sentenced to RT would be detained in a Reformative Training Centre (“RTC”) to attend programs or counselling to deal with his or her offending behavior. Following his or her release from the RTC, he has to undergo a supervision period under the Prisons Reintegration Officers until his or her release from reformative training.

During the supervision period, the offender is expected to work, study or perform community services. He or she may also be obliged to follow certain orders such as wearing an electronic transmitting device to monitor their whereabouts.

  1. What if the offender breaches their obligations under their RT supervision period?

A failure to comply with obligations under the RT supervision period may result in re-detention in the RTC. That said, the entire re-detention period cannot end later than:

  • 3 years after the date on which the offender’s sentence of RT starts; or
  • 6 months after the date of the offender’s re-detention; whichever is later

It is also worth noting that the entire re-detention period must not be more than 54 months after the date of the offender’s sentence of RT.

  1. Does RT leave a criminal record?

Yes. Unlike Probation, RT unfortunately results in a criminal record.

Consult a criminal lawyer

Reformative training is a generally harsh punishment aimed at preventing youthful offenders from reoffending. If you still have questions and/or wish to find more about it,  do contact us and we will be happy to see what we can do you.

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