Legal News
Prosecutions for VaWG improve in northwest England (15 September 2016)
Date: 15/09/2016
A new report published by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) shows that the conviction rate for rape, sexual offences and domestic abuse prosecutions in the northwest has improved.
The CPS's annual “Violence against Women and Girls” report reveals that, in 2015-2016, just over 13,000 defendants were prosecuted by the CPS in the northwest of England (Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cumbria) for sexual offences against women and girls – offences which are collectively known as Violence against Women and Girls (VaWG).
The figure represents a total of 79% of defendants convicted in 2015-2016 –
an increase from 77.8% in 2014-2015.
Nationally the conviction rate in 2015-2016 was 74.2%.
The CPS report also shows that the largest improvement in the conviction rate in the region was in rape cases – with 61.4% of defendants convicted, representing an increase of 8.3% on the previous year.
A total of 81.6% of defendants charged with sexual offences other than rape were also convicted, an improvement of 4.9% on figures for 2014-2015.
The conviction rate for domestic abuse cases remains “broadly consistent” at 79.6%, compared with 79% in 2014-2015.
Chief Crown Prosecutor, North West Area, Claire Lindley, said:
“I am pleased to see that the conviction rate in the northwest for domestic violence, rape and sexual assault offences has improved this year.
“The prosecution of crimes involving violence against women and girls is one of our key priorities – and I hope that today's report will give victims confidence in coming forward and reporting these crimes to police.
“The message is also clear to those who commit these offences – where we have evidence, we will bring prosecutions.
“Over the last year, CPS North West has set up a specialist unit for prosecuting rape and serious sexual offences, with specially trained prosecutors and paralegal staff – and since this team was established, we have seen a significant improvement on the number of successful prosecutions for sexual offences.”
Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers
Duncan Lewis crime lawyers are available 24/7, 365 days a year to advise at any stage of a charge involving sexual offences, including rape, sexual assault, child sexual exploitation, grooming, revenge porn, prostitution, or making, distributing or downloading indecent images.
There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales – including more than 20 offices across London and the southeast. A Duncan Lewis criminal defence lawyer can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.
For expert legal advice on charges involving sexual offences, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 0333 772 0409.
For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.