Domestic violence network set up

The Crown Prosecution Service has set up a
national network of co-ordinators as part of a drive to crack down
on domestic violence.

The co-ordinators will be prosecutors with
special expertise in the field who will develop links between
criminal justice agencies and the voluntary sector.

The CPS admits that in the past domestic abuse
has not been taken seriously enough. The service’s revised policy
considers a range of issues including the best way to deal with
cases where victims change their mind about pressing charges.

Under new guidelines, more supporting evidence
will be gathered, resulting in a higher chance of a successful
prosecution even if the victim does not give evidence.

The CPS says the safety of victims and
children in domestic violence cases will be given priority when
deciding whether or not to prosecute.