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The Role of The Crown Prosecution Service

The Crown Prosecution Service is the government department responsible for prosecuting criminal cases investigated by the police in England and Wales.

As the principal prosecuting authority in England and Wales, we are responsible for:

  • advising the police on cases for possible prosecution
  • reviewing cases submitted by the police
  • determining any charges in more serious or complex cases
  • preparing cases for court
  • presenting cases at court

Find out more about the role of the Crown Prosecution Service

Home » News Centre » Articles » Chief Crown Prosecutor Speaks at Jewish Religious Festival

Chief Crown Prosecutor Speaks at Jewish Religious Festival

02/06/2004

As part of CPS Avon & Somerset's ongoing community engagement programme, Chief Crown Prosecutor, David Archer gave a presentation about the CPS to the Bristol Progressive Jewish Congregation to mark the holy festival of Shavuot on 25th May. Speaking at the event, David said:

" It is important for the many diverse communities we serve to understand the vital public service the CPS provides. Most people have a clear idea of what the Police or Fire Service do but may be a bit unfamiliar with our role. This kind of event also helps us to become aware of the specific concerns and significant cultural differences of our diverse communities that can sometimes affect the perceptions and behaviour of defendants, victims and witnesses. The Jewish community is only one of many we serve in Avon & Somerset. I hope that, with the help of staff and our newly-formed Equality and Diversity Committee we can, in time, develop better dialogue and understanding with all communities."

Talking about the CPS involvement with their festival, Francis Berry, Rabbi of the Progressive Jewish Council said:

" We are delighted the Chief Crown Prosecutor came to tell us about the work of your organisation and how it affects us all. We felt it was particularly appropriate to hear about the CPS at Shavuot because this festival traditionally honours Law, Law-givers and Judgement. It commemorates the time when Moses brought God's Holy Law, sometimes known as the Ten Commandments, down from Mount Sinai to the Children of Israel. Our Congregation were extremely interested in what the Chief Crown Prosecutor had to say - we hope we did not bombard him with too many questions!"

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