Number of cases stuck in backlog surpasses 6,500
The backlog of cases awaiting trial in crown courts has more than doubled since 2021, according to new figures from the Ministry of Justice. Currently, over 6,500 cases are caught in a 24-month backlog, compared to 2,769 cases two years ago.
One in ten cases face waits of two years or more
Shockingly, one in ten of the total outstanding crown court cases now have waits of two years or more. This has led to concerns about the impact on victims and the risk of trials collapsing, allowing criminals to go free.
Lib Dems call for action
The Liberal Democrats have called on the government to take action to address the issue. They are urging ministers to commit to halving the time it takes from the offense to sentencing. They also propose the opening of extra temporary "Nightingale courtrooms" to increase capacity and reduce delays.
"Victims are being left in legal limbo"
Alistair Carmichael, the Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson, described the situation as a national scandal. He expressed concern for the thousands of crime victims who are being left in legal limbo, waiting for justice to be served. Carmichael believes that the lengthy delays increase the risk of trials collapsing and allow more criminals to evade punishment.
Conservatives criticized for losing control of law and order
Carmichael also criticized the Conservative government, stating that they have lost control of law and order in the country. He highlighted the impact of the delays on unsolved crimes and court case backlogs, calling for urgent action to address the issue.
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