A MAJOR transformation programme that will radically overhaul the way that evidence is handled and used by the criminal justice system has been announced.

New technology will facilitate swifter and more effective investigation, reporting, preparation and presentation of court cases.

The Scottish Government has contracted with Axon Public Safety UK Ltd to deliver the new Digital Evidence Sharing Capability service (DESC).

Axon, along with partner organisations, will pilot the innovative evidence sharing system launching in Spring 2022.

The system will transform how evidence is collected, managed and shared, allowing users such as police officers, prosecutors, court staff and defence agents to access evidence digitally in an efficient and user­-friendly way.

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The initiative, which was developed collaboratively by justice partners, has the potential to significantly reduce the costs involved in managing and transporting CCTV footage, video interviews and forensic images in physical form.

It will also allow for earlier consideration and disclosure of evidence leading to quicker resolution of cases and potentially fewer trials – benefitting victims, witnesses, and those accused of crimes.

Justice Secretary Keith Brown said: “This is an important step in improving the experience of victims and witnesses in the criminal justice process.

“It will make a real difference to the time taken for cases to come to court, allowing those involved in criminal cases to move on with their lives sooner.

“Earlier resolution of cases is just one of the benefits this programme will bring. We are also putting in place a modern, forward looking platform that can be used as the basis for further transformation.

“This is an important development as we continue working across the criminal justice system to recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

“At the same time we are creating a modern and resilient system for the future.”

DESC lead for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) Andrew Laing said: “The DESC service is an important step in the modernisation of the justice system.”

Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service Chief Executive Eric McQueen said: “The justice system needs to keep pace with the growth and opportunities in digital advancements and we welcome the development of DESC, providing a secure evidence pathway from crime scene to court room.”