The Local Criminal Justice Court Reporting Scheme is a pilot project devised by the Local Criminal Justice Board (LCJB) and funded by the PCC’s office.
The three-month pilot provides funding for a dedicated news reporter to cover court cases in the region, allowing the public to see justice being carried out in their communities.
The scheme is being conducted in partnership with Newsquest Media Group, who were selected following a bidding process. All news articles generated by the Criminal Justice Court Reporter will be made available free-of-charge to any certified media organisation which has signed up to the scheme.
The trial will initially focus on proceedings at Exeter Magistrates Court, with scope for expansion in the future.
Alison Hernandez, Police & Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “Seeing justice served in our communities is vital for public confidence in both the police and the criminal justice system.
“Sadly, there are fewer news reporters covering court proceedings than there have been in previous decades, meaning many cases go completely unreported. Not only is this frustrating for the victims and communities involved, it also seriously reduces opportunities for the public to understand the criminal justice system.
“I am particularly pleased that Magistrates’ Courts will feature as part of this project. While many higher-profile Crown Court cases are widely reported, Magistrates’ proceedings often go under the radar – yet this is where so many areas of community concern are dealt with.
“Whether it’s violence, drug use, shoplifting, drink driving or nuisance behaviour, it’s vital we lift the lid on these incidents and are transparent about how they are dealt with.”
If you are an accredited media organisation interested in signing up to the pilot scheme, please email joel.cooper@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk