Bail rules tightened to protect victims

Victims of crime will be given greater consideration by prosecutors in decisions to oppose bail, following a review by the Crown Office.

New guidelines will shift focus to public protection as well as managing risks such 
as an accused absconding or failing to turn up at court.

Lesley Thomson, QC, solicitor-general for Scotland, who commissioned the review, said: “The prosecution service has a responsibility to protect communities from persistent and dangerous offenders.

“Our new bail guidance will ensure our decisions to oppose bail and have an accused remanded in custody continue to be fair, considered and consistent.”