How does the penalty increase for repeated offences against minors under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2006?

Under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2006, there is a specific provision for increased penalties for repeated offences against minors. This approach reflects the sensitivity and seriousness with which the law treats offences involving children. When a person repeats an offence, the increase in penalty serves as both a deterrent and a reflection of the impact that repeated abuse has on victims and society.

The correct choice is that the penalty increases by 5 years for subsequent offences. This specific increase acknowledges the need for a measured yet significant escalation in punishment for those who commit multiple offences against minors, providing a structured response that aims to protect vulnerable individuals and impose stricter consequences on offenders who demonstrate recidivist behaviour.

The other possibilities, such as doubling the penalty or adding an increase of 10 years, are not provided for in the legislation, making the choice of a 5-year increase more aligned with the legislative intent of the act. Maintaining the same penalty for subsequent offences fails to reflect the serious nature of repeated crimes and would not contribute effectively to deterring offenders.