CPS Statement on HMCPSI Performance Assessment report of Bexley

19/01/2010

Following publication of the HMCPSI performance assessment report of Bexley, Borough Crown Prosecutor Peter Burt said:

"We welcome the report and will be seeking to implement the aspects of improvement identified by the Inspectorate to further improve the service we provide. The report recognises the good work being done by the borough but I will be fully analysing all areas and seeking to build upon the aspects identified.

"Our success in the Magistrates court this year has been recognised and I believe the strong preparation of cases has helped to increase our rate of successful outcomes. I will analyse what is happening in the Magistrates court and try to mirror this in the Crown Court so that we can ensure we are also robustly prosecuting the more serious crimes that we see in Bexley.

"I am pleased that the Inspectorate has recognised the service to victims and witnesses is fair but this is still a key area I will be seeking improve. Ensuring those who are a victim of crime or who witness a crime are kept informed about the progress of a case is of vital importance to the Crown Prosecution Service. Ultimately, without people coming forward, we cannot bring perpetrators to justice. I will be working closely with partner agencies and CPS staff alike to secure improving performance so that the people of Bexley feel confident that they will have a high level of service if they experience crime within the borough.

"The last year has seen a number of big changes in the way we work in Bexley and we have had a few difficulties to contend with in relation to staff levels. I will be ensuring that we make the best use of our resources on borough to deal with the increasing workload we have. The Inspectorate has recognised that the borough is charging cases fairly and applying the Code for Crown Prosecutors correctly. However, by improving preparation, ensuring we have the strongest cases possible when we get to court and providing a better service to victims and witnesses, I am confident we will see conviction rates rise in both the Magistrates and Crown Courts.

"The report recognises that we are working well with our criminal justice service partners. We have a strong and constructive relationship and will continue to build upon that in the coming months as we seek to improve on the aspects identified by the Inspectorate.

"My team and I are dedicated to prosecuting thoroughly crimes committed in Bexley, ensuring that offenders are brought to justice and that the people of Bexley have confidence in the Crown Prosecution Service."

Ends