Everyday Victim Blaming

challenging institutional disbelief around domestic & sexual violence and abuse

Letter from Keir Starmer re: Wilson Case *Updated 20 Aug 2013*

Keir Starmer QC
Director of Public Prosecutions

Jo XXXXXX
Everydayvictimblaming
7 August 2013
Dear Ms XXXXXX,
Thank you for your letter of 6 August regarding the case of Neil Wilson.
In recent years, the Crown Prosecution Service has put a great deal of effort into improving the way we prosecute sexual offences, particularly those involving children. This includes working alongside the judiciary and other agencies including victims’ groups to improve attitudes towards vulnerable children subject to this abhorrent crime.
I expect all CPS prosecutors and self-employed barristers acting on our behalf to follow legal guidance in these very difficult cases. However, the language used by the prosecution counsel in this case was inappropriate. In particular, the use of the word ‘predatory’ to describe the 13 year old victim is of great concern to me. I want to be very clear that the transgressor in this case was the 41 year old defendant and he bears responsibility for his criminal acts. I will be reviewing this case to decide what action is necessary.
Yours sincerely,
KEIR STARMER QC
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS

Update - 20 August 2013

We have contacted the CPS by email to request an expected completion date for their investigation. We will publicise this as soon as we have a response from them.

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One thought on “Letter from Keir Starmer re: Wilson Case *Updated 20 Aug 2013*

  • Admin says:

    *Latest News* – 23/8/13
    Following our petition, the CPS have informed us that they are holding a meeting at end of September and an investigation is due after then.