Call for more domestic abuse courts rejected
21 Jan 08
Chief Constable's plea ruled "impractical" by Scottish Government
Scotland's most senior police officer has called for specialist courts across the country to deal with domestic violence, according to today's Scotsman.
Stephen House, the chief constable of Strathclyde Police, claims the success of the pilot domestic abuse court in Glasgow proves the need for such courts. Three sheriffs designated to the court have dealt with more than 700 cases since the system was set up in October 2004. The chief constable wants the system replicated in other cities.
Prosecutions through the court are fast tracked and victims are provided with support to counteract the risk of pressure to withdraw their complaints or refuse to give evidence.
The Scottish Government has agreed to fund an expansion of the Glasgow service but claims the lack of courtroom space makes it impractical to extend the scheme to other cities.
Mr House said the advantage of a dedicated court was that the sheriff became an expert on the issue, more understanding of the victim and of the most suitable disposal. The lack of finance to expand the service was a "frustration".