News In Focus
6 March 2009
Lord Advocate launches National Sexual Crimes Unit
A new team of Scotland's most senior prosecutors is to specialise in the investigation and prosecution of serious sexual crimes across Scotland,
The Lord Advocate, Elish Angiolini QC, announced today that a dedicated team of specialist Crown counsel will direct these criminal investigations from the earliest stages, providing advice and expertise to procurators fiscal.
The National Sexual Crimes Unit will be based in Edinburgh and will also include a dedicated team of specialist procurators fiscal.
The Crown counsel team will be headed by Derek Ogg QC, who has led the prosecution of some of Scotland's most serious offences.
Challenging and sensitive cases
Derek Ogg said today: “Sexual crimes are undoubtedly among Scotland’s most disturbing and harrowing crimes. For prosecutors, sexual offences are often the most challenging and sensitive cases to bring before a court. However, I am determined that we will continue to do our utmost to bring compelling prosecutions and treat victims with dignity and respect.
“We want them to have confidence that their cases will be handled by specialists equipped to ensure that the prosecution of these crimes is as professional and effective as possible. I look forward to leading the team and building on our existing expertise.”
The new unit is being established on the recommendation of Dorothy Bain QC, newly appointed Principal Advocate Depute, who has considerable experience of prosecuting sexual offences. Derek Ogg QC is one of the two new assistant principal advocates depute. The unit will complement work to implement the recommendations of the Lord Advocate’s Review of Sexual Offences, published in 2006.
Sandy Brindley of Rape Crisis Scotland said: “Rape is a crime that can have a harrowing and long term effect on its victims, and it is one which people can often be reluctant to report to the police. We welcome recent developments within the Crown Office in relation to how these crimes are prosecuted, and are hopeful that this will lead to an improved response to these crimes.”