Evidence led domestic abuse prosecutions

Summary

If the victim of domestic abuse decides not to support a prosecution, police and prosecutors should consider whether it is possible to bring a prosecution without that support. This is called an evidence led prosecution.

Her Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) and HMICFRS conducted an inspection to find out:

• whether the guidance and policy on evidence led prosecutions is widely understood by both police officers and prosecutors; and
• whether they seek to build viable evidence led prosecutions where appropriate.

Get the report

Evidence led domestic abuse prosecutions (PDF document)

Get the press release

Building successful domestic abuse prosecutions without the victim’s support is possible but challenging for police and prosecutors

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Devon and Cornwall PCC’s response

Dorset PCC’s response

Durham PCC’s response

Dyfed-Powys PCC’s response (PDF document)

Gwent PCC’s response (PDF document)

Merseyside PCC’s response (PDF document)

Nottinghamshire PCC’s response (PDF document)

Surrey PCC’s response

Sussex PCC’s response

West Yorkshire PCC’s response

Wiltshire PCC’s response

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