The rise in outstanding court cases due to the pandemic is delaying justice for the victims and is a serious situation.  The closure of two court houses in Suffolk was wrong and has compounded the problems facing the criminal justice system in Suffolk. There needs to be;

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•    Reforms to the criminal justice system to reduce re-offending rates are long overdue and I would like to develop some pilot projects with partners to deliver some proof-of-concept projects which include skills training, housing and employment supported with proper mentoring and counselling.

•    Effective rehabilitation of offenders is another area for consideration of pilot projects.

•    Closer working with other agencies such as prison authorities, youth justice and probation. This should involve bodies such as DWP, the voluntary sector and MENTA to help get individuals back into work so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to society in Suffolk.

•    Investment in technology and the use of other public buildings for magistrates’ hearings.

•    A focus on making sure sentencing acts as a suitable deterrent and improve public trust and confidence in the system.

•    A keen interest will be taken, and submissions made to the long- awaited Royal Commission on criminal justice reform.

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