Crown Prosecution Service Support for Victims 2024-12-19
2024-12-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted a case in Sutton Bridge where a six-year-old girl was indecently exposed, and the perpetrator known to the community but not properly investigated. He referenced Edmund Burke's quote on justice being vital for society.
What steps is the Crown Prosecution Service taking to improve support for victims of crime? You will know that Edmund Burke said 'Justice is itself the great standing policy of civil society', but injustice reigns when victims feel neglected, as in Sutton Bridge where a six-year-old girl was indecently exposed and not properly investigated. Such incidents undermine faith in justice.
We have worked with the CPS to improve communication with victims, strengthen the victims' right to review scheme, reduce victim attrition rates, and reduce delays. Policing is key, and we aim to put 13,000 more police officers and PCSOs back on the beat.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific case in Sutton Bridge was not addressed directly
Changing Subject
General Statements
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted a case in his constituency where a six-year-old girl was indecently exposed, the perpetrator was known but not properly investigated despite reports and CCTV evidence.
Injustice reigns when crimes like indecent exposure are neglected. The six-year-old victim's case in Sutton Bridge, with available CCTV footage, was inadequately investigated. People lose faith in justice when such incidents occur. How will the CPS address these crimes?
We are prioritising tackling backlogs and supporting victims, improving communication with them, strengthening victim rights review schemes. Policing needs more officers; we have pledged 13,000 more police officers and PCSOs.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific Sutton Bridge incident was not addressed directly
Changing Subject
General Statements
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP welcomed the new Solicitor General and noted that Crown courts face a backlog of over 73,000 cases, leading to long delays for trials, making it difficult for victims to stay engaged with the justice process.
Given the Crown court backlog exceeds 73,000 cases with some trials listed for 2027, many victims are waiting unacceptably long times for their trials. How is the Solicitor General working through the CPS to ensure that victims who face waits of two to three years remain committed?
We need to do much more to support victims, and we are reviewing Crown courts. The Lord Chancellor is increasing funding for sitting days; additional 2,000 sitting days were announced yesterday.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific measures or timelines were provided for supporting victims during long delays
Changing Subject
General Statements
Response accuracy