Statement concerning historical abuse enquiry

RELEASED TO MEDIA AT 15.40 PM ON TUESDAY 16 SEPTEMBER

We would like to make it clear that all the evidence obtained by the Historical Abuse Team has been made available to lawyers working with us, and has now been fully assessed. We would stress that we have reviewed our working practices including where the legal team work and we are now satisfied that the proper arrangements are in place.

The present relationship between the police and legal teams is helpful in ensuring that this investigation will lead to criminals being brought before the Courts. In the UK, it is regarded as good practice for lawyers to work directly with the Police, and we can confirm that this is happening with this case in Jersey.

We do not intend to respond individually to specific questions which may impact on the current investigation and, more importantly at this time, on any prosecutions. It is, I believe, also inappropriate for any discussion to take place concerning matters which may impact on the victims and witnesses in this investigation, and such discussion would do little to reassure them.

Regarding the victims and witnesses involved in this investigation, and those who have still to come forward, I would like to offer them my reassurance that they will be treated with dignity and respect. We will treat their individual cases with discretion and compassion and they will not be discussed in the media.

David Warcup

Deputy Chief Officer

The States of Jersey Police

Tuesday 16 September 2008