Violence Against Women
CPS Rape Policy
Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor Andrew Baxter explains the work of the CPS East of England Area in relation to rape:
The CPS is determined to improve its performance in the prosecution of rape cases. These can be difficult to prosecute. Often there are two versions of events, particularly in cases where consent is the issue. However our role is the same as with any other offence. We apply the Code for Crown Prosecutors, so providing we have sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest, then we will proceed with the case to court.
The CPS has for many years been committed to bringing quality prosecutions in these cases, and is determined to build on recent successes in the Area. To assist, we have:
- Specialist rape prosecutors and area co-ordinators
- Extensions to the availability of special measures
- An increase in the number of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs)
- Dedicated Witness Care Units (WCUs) under the No Witness, No Justice project
- Dip sampling of files for quality assurance and learning points
- An Eastern Area rape performance group focussed on improving performance and sharing good practice
- Consultation with our Community Involvement panels on rape prosecution work
- Scrutiny of rape cases in a number of formats including scrutiny panels and joint working groups with the police
We try to ensure that one specialist prosecutor is involved in, and accountable for, a rape prosecution from beginning to end. Consultation with a second specialist is undertaken if no further action is to be advised or a prosecution cannot continue. The consultation will be recorded and the second specialist identified; and that Chief Crown Prosecutors ensure that there is continuity of counsel, as well as of specialist prosecutor, throughout the case, and the caseworker in the case should attend court throughout the trial.
We are also committed to ensuring that victims of this crime are kept up to date with progress of a case throughout and that they are given all the support they need.
East of England Area lead for Violence against Women, Deputy CCP Andrew Baxter said:
"Rape is an horrendous crime. Many victims are understandably often frightened to come forward to the authorities to report offences. We work closely with the police to ensure a strong prosecution team approach and that high quality cases are built and taken to court, providing the best possible service to victims at a difficult time for them. We want to assure anyone that is a victim of this type of crime that they will be listened to and supported throughout the course of any court proceedings. If prosecutions are brought, victims will be kept informed about how the case progresses, and in the event that a prosecution is not possible, a detailed explanation in writing or a face-to-face meeting will take place to ensure that we are accountable and that the reasons for our decisions are clear."
Domestic violence
Domestic violence occurs throughout society, amongst people of all ethnicities, sexualities, ages, disabilities, religions or beliefs. We recognise that both men and women can be victims, although the majority of victims are women. Taking action against domestic violence is included as part of the CPS Violence against Women Strategy. We will apply our domestic violence policy without discrimination in all cases.
