Forces open two-way link with the CPS

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and West Midlands Police (WMP) are introducing a new electronic two-way communication interface with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) next month.

It is part of the CPS ‘Transformation Through Technology’ (T3) programme that aims to link police and CPS computer systems to allow information to be shared automatically, end wasteful practices of photocopying, faxing and re-keying paper records and to make case files available at the click of a button.

It represents a significant upgrade to the current one-way system of transferring files.

GMP and WMP have been preparing and sending all case files electronically to the CPS since 2008 using STL Technologies’ case and custody management software.

The CPS has committed to deliver a far more digital criminal justice system by April 2012, including the use of electronic witness statements and electronic case files by the police to help improve efficiency and reduce costs.

From early November, the new two-way interface will:

•Allow more effective exchange of defendant, witness and victim information between the CPS and police;

•Automatically update police files with CPS file memos and other documentation;

•Support pre-charge decision-making by sending pre-charge decision requests to the CPS and updating the police files with CPS action plans;

•Update police files and custody management system with charging decisions; and

•Save time and increase accuracy by eliminating the need for manual data entry.

STL’s two-way interface will deliver major cost and efficiency savings. For example, by supporting streamlined processing, the amount of file work required in the event of an expected guilty plea is reduced.

STL has already developed police software to enable complex forms, such as the MGDD (drink/drugs station procedure), to be sent electronically as part of an electronic case file.