Stalking

Today, HMCPSI published its inspection of how well the CPS builds and prosecutes stalking cases while supporting and protecting victims. It follows The London stalking review by the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime and HMCPSI’s subsequent examination of the CPS’s charging decisions in cases considered as part of that review.

Together, those reports raised important questions about the criminal justice system’s response to stalking and highlighted the need to assess whether improvements have translated into consistent practice nationally.

We found that, in many areas, the CPS has clear guidance, established processes and committed leadership. The challenge lies in making sure these expectations are applied consistently in day-to-day practice. Throughout this report we identify areas where established requirements were not followed and where greater organisational focus is needed to achieve consistent delivery.