A finding of a court if it believes there is a significant risk to the public of serious harm being committed by an offender.
A finding of dangerous means that the court can impose an extended sentence. An extended sentence involves a custodial sentence with an extended period of licence. This period is limited to up to 5 years for a violent offence, and 8 years for a sexual offence, and the total period must not exceed the maximum penalty for the offence. The person will also spend a greater portion of their time in custody than for determinate sentences.
Courts have said that particular caution should be made in finding that child defendants are dangerous.