SIR – The headline (T&A, January 21) sounded great, “Break-in gang locked up for 10 years”. But, hang on a minute. There were three culprits, who were given 4 1/2 years, 3 years 4 months and 2 1/2 years each.

So, at the very worst a sentence of just over two years will actually be served.

Doesn’t sound so great then, does it?

If the sentences were to be served in full, or if they had been given ten years each, then it might just have had the required deterrent effect.

Unfortunately, as it stands, in my view it will not, whatever the initial soundbite.

Bob Watson, Springfield Road, Baildon