Commentary First Group of Parts – Discipline Part 8 – Sentencing Powers and Mandatory Etc Sentences Section 190: Suspension of sentence of service detention
395.This section enables a court or CO, when passing a sentence of service detention, to suspend the sentence. In that case the sentence does not come into effect unless “activated” following the offender’s conviction of another offence committed during a period of three to twelve months (“the operational period”) specified when the sentence is passed. This is distinct from the rule that a sentence of detention passed by a CO (even if not suspended) does not take effect until the offender has had a chance to appeal: see sections 290 and 291.