Groundbreaking TV link helps secure prosecution

16/04/2007

A former paramedic has today pleaded guilty to theft after his elderly victim was prepared to give evidence via a live TV link from his home following an application to Derby Crown Court by the county's Crown Prosecution Service.

The groundbreaking initiative - the first of its kind ever set up in the county - enabled the 76 year old victim to be ready to give evidence in the trial of David Wright, who pleaded guilty to stealing cash belonging to the victim after being called to his home following a 999 call.

As a result of serious health problems the victim is housebound, and it would have been impossible for him to attend court without this having an adverse effect on his health.  Derbyshire CPS therefore made the decision to apply for a live TV link to be set up from the court to the victims home in Chaddesden.

The defendant had pleaded not guilty before the trial.  But as the trial started, and with his victim on stand-by to give evidence via the remote link, he decided to change his plea to guilty.

Anna Zimand, Head of the Trials Unit at Derbyshire Crown Prosecution Service explains: "Not only was the victims evidence absolutely vital to our prosecution case, but it was important that he was given opportunity to have his say in court and play his part in helping secure justice. 

"We therefore made the decision to put the necessary facilities in place to enable him to give that evidence during the trial.  We worked closely with staff from the court and other criminal justice agencies to set up a live TV link from the victim's home to Derby Crown Court, so that he could give his account of events direct to the jury.

"What makes this crime so shocking is that it demonstrates an appalling breach of trust by a paramedic, who abused his position to take advantage of a vulnerable patient.  We are delighted with todays outcome and I would like to praise the courage of the victim in being prepared to give evidence, and to acknowledge the hard work of everyone involved in helping make this possible."