CPS says | The Crown Prosecution Service

CPS Says: Conviction rates play no part in deciding whether or not to charge a case

Conviction rates play no part in CPS decision making – so we know a story this week “CPS failing victims by cherry-picking cases’ may have caused concern.

In fact, of the cases brought to us by the police we authorise a charge in around 78%. We always prosecute where there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to do so. We never consider how a case may affect our overall conviction rates. More on how we make decisions on individual cases can be read here.

CPS says: Victims of crime should not delay getting the therapeutic support they need

BEING the victim of a sexual offence is undoubtedly one of the most traumatic experiences a person may face in their lifetime. Our message on this is clear – if therapy is needed to aid recovery, there are no circumstances where access should be delayed.

CPS Says: Our response to BBC documentary on rape

There is no doubt the case highlighted by BBC today is harrowing and we have offered an unreserved apology to the victim for the mistakes we made and the stress and trauma she has endured.

CPS Says: CPS and NPCC respond toThe Criminal Justice Joint Inspection (CJJI) of how well the criminal justice system serves survivors of rape

Max Hill QC, Director of Public Prosecutions said: “We know victims of sexual offences can suffer lasting trauma, and too often their experience of the criminal justice system adds to their suffering. The CPS is committed to making the changes needed so that more victims see justice.

Max Hill QC, DPP, on the the judgment in the judicial review of the prosecution of rape and serious sexual offences

Today, Monday 15 March, Lord Burnett dismissed the application for Judicial Review from the End Violence Against Women (EVAW) coalition against the CPS.

Incorrect story in The Times on age of criminal responsibility

Today the Times is running an incorrect story which falsely claims that in a recent podcast interview, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Max Hill QC, called for the age of criminal responsibility to be raised.

Modern slavery

Modern slavery has a devastating effect on its victims, and we are committed to prosecuting these crimes.

CPS Says: Stalking offences under coronavirus lockdown

There has been some discussion about how stalking cases are investigated and prosecuted during the current lockdown. The CPS would like to clarify our approach.

CPS Says: the role of the CPS in deciding whether to charge an individual with a criminal offence

We have been asked questions about the role of the CPS in deciding whether to charge an individual with a criminal offence. The following information explains our role and approach. It is not a comment on any individual case.

Terror offences - charges left to lie on file

A story in the Telegraph - 'Prosecutors allow dozens of charges brought against terrorists to 'lie on file' - has incorrectly claimed the CPS is allowing charges to lie on file for defendants accused of terror offences as part of “sweetheart deals”.

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