The Criminal Justice Branch has implemented a Vulnerable Victim and Witness Policy after recommendations from The Report of the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry.
This new policy outlines the best ways for crown counsel to assist vulnerable people to effectively participate in the criminal justice system with ongoing support throughout the prosecution.
Spokesperson Neil MacKenzie says it was developed in consultation with senior prosecutors who have experience and expertise in cases involving vulnerable participants.
“The policy is new but it brings together a number of the best practices in dealing with and assisting those who have been identified as vulnerable victims or witnesses,” he says.
The missing women inquiry suggested a policy be put in place for prosecution of crimes of violence against women engaged in the sex trade however MacKenzie says the branch decided instead to widen it to include all vulnerable people.