"The Probation Service was unable to produce a report"? What does that actually mean apart from justice being delayed, and hence denied?

Technomist, I wouldnt worry too much about this article as it's incorrect.
The Probation Service would not be responsible for completing the report as they only deal with people over the age of 18, it would be the responsibility of the Youth Offending Service.

So, it's the 'Youth Offending Service' which has caused the delay. Is that OK then?

No, of course not but it questions the reliabilty of the reporting of this article

Technomist, unfortunately the YOT being unable to produce a report is by no means uncommon, due to there being no resources available for criminal or civil justice. I fully agree that "justice delayed is justice denied" but unfortunately I see such examples of delay and denial on a daily basis

Seeing things on a daily basis doesn't make them acceptible. I also see some of the effects of the inability of our local police and justice system to get a grip on crime in our borough. There are many individuals affected, but even those who think they aren't should ponder the declining quality of the experience in our public spaces, the empty shops and lack of investment (how long has the council-owned restaurant property next to Sainsbury's been neglected?) due to flagging business confidence. The increasing evidence of poverty is all around us. There are of course other factors in play, but a lack of effective and credible law and order is a fundamental element in helping an economy collapse.

No Technomist, you're right, seeing the breakdown on a daily basis in no way makes it acceptable. Unfortunately the justice system is in meltdown, there is no available funding and it is not seen as a priority at all by the Government. The hallmark of a civilised society is an effective system of law and order and sadly this is being continually eroded.

I see from the WFG is reporting there is still money for the Police to waste on talking police cars to make sure their more stupid officers don't put the wrong kind of fuel in them.

I sometimes wonder if we wouldn't be better off taking the cars away from some of our police. Whatever they are up to with them these days it isn't working as well as it should be.