New policy helps people at risk take the stand

A new policy is in place to help vulnerable people when they take the stand.

The Criminal Justice Branch created the Vulnerable Victim and Witness Policy after recommendations from The Report of the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry.

Spokesperson Neil MacKenzie says it was developed in consultation with senior prosecutors who have experience in cases involving people at risk.

“The policy is new, but the policy brings together a number of what’s been identified as ‘best practices’ in dealing with and assisting individuals who are identified as vulnerable victims or witnesses,” he says.

The Missing Women’s Inquiry suggests 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.