CPS Statement on HMCPSI Performance Assessment Report of Ealing
16/03/2010
Following publication of the HMCPSI performance assessment report of Ealing, Borough Crown Prosecutor Irene Bhadresa said:
"We welcome the report and we are pleased that the Inspectorate has recognised we have systems and processes in place which are working well. We are handling custody time limit cases well and we have a strong and productive relationship with our criminal justice partners. The Inspectorate recognises that staff are working hard in the borough to provide a good service. We will be taking forward the aspects of improvement identified by the Inspectorate in order to improve the work we do.
"A London wide review of resourcing in each borough is currently in progress and will be completed shortly. This will ensure that we have the right number of people in place to deal with the workload. Proper resources and clear structures and processes will improve case 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 that will see conviction rates rise in both the Magistrates and Crown Courts.
"We have been rated fair for the service we provide to victims and witnesses but this will be among the aspects we seek to further improve. Attending court as a victim or witness can be very difficult and I want to make sure we have everything in place to make that easier. We will prioritise the need to ensure that applications for special measures are submitted in time, so that people giving evidence are given every help they need.
"In the last year we have moved into Acton Police station and it is hoped this co-location with the police will lead to many improvements in the way we work. We hope to continue and build on the strong working relationship we have with the police, resulting in better case management.
"My team and I are dedicated to prosecuting thoroughly crimes committed in Ealing, ensuring that offenders are brought to justice and that the people of Ealing have confidence in their Crown Prosecution Service."
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