Witness for the prosecution: Identifying victim and witness vulnerability in criminal case files
Summary
The police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) are two of the principal participants in the criminal justice system. They have complementary roles: the police investigate crime and the CPS prepares the cases and presents them in court. If victims or witnesses are vulnerable this may affect their ability to attend court and give evidence. It is therefore essential that police officers identify accurately the vulnerability of victims and witnesses in the case papers they submit to the CPS.
This report sets out the findings of a review of the quality of criminal case files. It examines how effective the police are in providing accurate information of the circumstances of the case, identifying the vulnerability of victims and witnesses, and assessing and managing risks so the needs of witnesses and victims are met.