PROSECUTIONS

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was forced to clarify its decision-making process when prosecuting domestic abuse cases against the alleged victim's wishes, after the suicide of TV presenter Caroline Flack last month. Flack had been facing trial for an alleged assault on her boyfriend. Refusing to comment on any individual case, the CPS released a statement detailing the two-stage test used to decide whether to prosecute. It also pointed to guidance for prosecutors, which explains 'why a complainant may withdraw support' for a case and how prosecutors can proceed 'without the complainant's support if other evidence is available'. 17 February

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