Commentary First Group of Parts – Discipline Part 9 – Sentencing: Principles and Procedures Section 243: Length of term of service detention: general provision
484.Where a sentence of service detention is passed by a court (except the SAC), subsection (2) requires it to be for the shortest term commensurate with the seriousness of the offence and any associated offences (see paragraph 483 above). Where such a sentence is passed by a CO or the SAC, subsection (3) similarly requires it to be for the shortest term commensurate with the seriousness of the offence or offences for which the offender is sentenced. The section applies to service detention a principle laid down in relation to custodial sentences by section 153 of the 2003 Act.