A woman who prosecuted her stepfather for childhood abuse is now suing the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), alleging that the trial process itself caused further harm and that the CPS failed in its duty to protect her wellbeing. The case, filed in the High Court, claims that the CPS mishandled the case, leaving her without adequate support and exposing her to unnecessary distress during the proceedings.
Background of the Case
The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, reported her stepfather to the police in 2019 after years of sexual and physical abuse that began when she was seven. The CPS charged him with multiple counts of abuse, and the trial took place in 2022. However, she says the prosecution was poorly managed, with delays, lack of communication, and insufficient consideration of her mental health. Her stepfather was eventually convicted and sentenced to 12 years in prison.
Allegations Against the CPS
The lawsuit, filed by her legal team, argues that the CPS breached its own guidelines on supporting vulnerable witnesses. Specifically, it failed to provide her with a registered intermediary to help her give evidence, and she was not given adequate breaks during cross-examination. She also claims that the CPS did not keep her informed about court dates or the progress of the case, leaving her in a state of constant anxiety. According to her lawyer, Sarah Johnson of Johnson & Associates, “The CPS’s failures turned a difficult but necessary process into a re-traumatising experience. Our client’s childhood effectively ended when the abuse began, but the CPS’s conduct ensured that she could not move forward even after the trial.”
Impact on the Claimant
The woman, now 24, says she has suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety as a result of both the original abuse and the trial. She has been unable to work or maintain relationships. The lawsuit seeks damages for the harm caused by the CPS’s alleged negligence, including the cost of therapy and loss of earnings. A CPS spokesperson said, “We take our responsibilities to victims and witnesses extremely seriously. While we cannot comment on ongoing legal proceedings, we are committed to learning from any case where our service falls short.”
Broader Implications
This case highlights ongoing concerns about how the justice system treats victims of abuse, particularly in sexual offence cases. Campaign groups have long called for better support for witnesses, including pre-trial therapy, clearer communication, and specialist training for prosecutors. According to a 2023 report by the Victims’ Commissioner, only 30% of victims felt fully informed about their case, and many reported feeling re-traumatised by the process. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for holding prosecutors accountable for the wellbeing of witnesses.
