Rights of Suspects and Victims
The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 establishes comprehensive guidelines for suspect treatment during criminal investigations. Upon arrest, police must inform suspects of their rights and reasons for detention. These rights include access to free legal advice and notification of family members.
Definition: The right to silence allows suspects to refrain from answering police questions during interviews, though this may lead to adverse inferences.
Highlight: Police can hold suspects for up to 24 hours, extending to 36 hours for serious offenses, with potential magistrate approval for an additional 96 hours.
Example: DNA samples and fingerprints can be collected without permission, but blood and urine samples require consent except in drink/driving cases.
The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 outlines victim rights during investigations. Victims receive written confirmation of their report, including a crime reference number and regular updates on case progression.
Vocabulary: A vulnerable victim is someone under 18, with disabilities, or subject to repeated crimes, entitled to enhanced support services.
Quote: "In cases of sexual assault/rape, it is against the law to publish the victim's name, photo or anything that can identify them."