A Guernsey politician has questioned whether two lengthy prison sentences for non-violent drug offences are proportionate, describing them as “wildly excessive”.

Deputy Andy Cameron said the long sentences handed to Richard Le Cras (47) and Matthew Lovell (49) – of more than 13 and 20 years respectively – went far beyond what was necessary to punish wrongdoing and protect the public.

“The offences were serious and there had to be consequences,” he said on social media.

“But these were non-violent crimes, and sentences of this length feel wildly excessive.”

His comments come as Home Affairs prepares an independent review of Guernsey’s sentencing system.

Home Affairs President Deputy Marc Leadbeater confirmed earlier this month that the review had been prioritised for this term, with preliminary work already under way and a public consultation planned.

Costs

Deputy Cameron, Vice-President of Education, Sport & Culture (ESC), said there was also a wider cost to society – and the taxpayer – when people were imprisoned for decades.

He highlighted the impact on the families of the two men, including children who had done nothing wrong but could face separation, stigma and financial insecurity as a result of their parents’ imprisonment.

He also estimated that keeping the two men at Les Nicolles for the full terms would cost around £2.6m in today’s money.

But his main concern was whether sentences of this length actually make Guernsey safer.

“Once a sentence is already severe, piling on more years adds little deterrence,” he said.

“The likelihood of being caught is a far stronger deterrent than the threat of an even longer sentence.”

Proportionate

Deputy Cameron pointed to the UK’s 2025 Independent Sentencing Review, which reported that operational organisations considered long sentences for drug importation and trafficking ineffective as a deterrent.

He said the relative harm of the drugs involved should also be taken into account when considering whether a sentence is proportionate.

Deputy Cameron said he had raised the issue with Deputy Leadbeater, who had given him a “very clear assurance” that reviewing Guernsey’s sentencing guidelines was an “absolute priority” for the committee this term.

He said the Home Affairs President was also hopeful that the new Bailiff would be sympathetic to reviewing the guidelines.

“Justice should punish wrongdoing and protect our community,” Deputy Cameron said.

“But it should also leave room for rehabilitation and recognise the wider harm caused by taking someone away for decades.

“I really struggle to see how sentences of this length get that balance right.”