Created: November 22, 2024 11:26

Cindy Clarke, Director of Public Prosecutions

Progress is being made in efforts to establish a domestic violence court by next month, the government has announced.

A spokesperson said: “The initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to providing victims and survivors with the necessary support while improving the justice process to deal more effectively with cases of domestic violence. »

It follows a visit to London by a delegation, which included senior magistrate Maxanne Anderson and Cindy Clarke, the director of public prosecutions, to observe the domestic abuse court at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

The group, which also included Acting Senior Crown Counsel Shaunte Simons-Fox, Senior Probation Officer Noel Hayward, and Witness Care Officer Deanna Binns, was moderated by Criminal Justice Program Manager Karen Senogles. and the courts at Standing Together. , a domestic violence prevention charity.

Ms Clarke said: “Our aim was to observe the operation of a domestic violence court with a view to establishing a similar court in Bermuda.

“We have had valuable discussions with Chief Crown Prosecutor Lionel Idan and his team at the Crown Prosecution Service.

“The visit allowed us to make important connections and gather information on best practices that we could implement or adapt in Bermuda. »

She said the proposed Bermuda Domestic Violence Court should streamline the handling of domestic violence cases.

She said this would ensure cases were handled promptly and sensitively while providing justice to victims and holding perpetrators accountable.

Ms Clarke added: “This initiative highlights Bermuda’s commitment to eradicating domestic violence and fostering a safer and more supportive environment for survivors.

“I am optimistic about the progress being made and am working closely with Magistrate Anderson to ensure that the Bermuda Domestic Violence Court is operational by December. »

Kim Wilkerson, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, supported the initiative.

She said this aligned with the Government’s wider strategy to provide coordinated support to victims of domestic violence.

Ms Wilkerson said: “The creation of the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Committee, as announced in the 2023 Speech from the Throne, reinforced our commitment to collaboration between key agencies.

“The committee ensures that victims of high-risk domestic violence cases receive comprehensive and well-coordinated support.

“The Government is committed to providing the resources needed to tackle domestic violence and effectively create meaningful and lasting change. »

During the delegation’s trip to London, Mr Hayward met his probation officer counterparts and Ms Binns spoke to officers responsible for dealing with witnesses.

The delegation also held discussions with Tanweer Ikram, Deputy District Judge of Westminster.