Householders and the Use of Force Against Intruders

Joint Public Statement from the Crown Prosecution Service and the Association of Chief Police Officers

It is a rare and frightening prospect to be confronted by an
intruder in your own home. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and
Chief Constables are responding to public concern over the support
offered by the law and confusion about householders defending
themselves. We want a criminal justice system that reaches fair
decisions, has the confidence of law-abiding citizens and encourages
them actively to support the police and prosecutors in the fight
against crime.

Wherever possible you should call the police. The following
document summarises the position when you are faced with an intruder
in your home, and provides a brief overview of how the police and CPS
will deal with any such events.