Witnesses called to court by text message

Witnesses called to court by text message

A new computer system has been designed to keep victims of crime up-to-date with the progress of their court case.

XHIBIT will cut the time people spend waiting to give evidence in court.

It could also save as many as 80,000 police days every year as officers often have to waste hours hanging around before being called to give evidence.

Witnesses can now be told to come to court via text message or can track the progress of hearings via the internet.

Public display screens in the court building will also feature the latest case status.

XHIBIT is now in use at Crown courts in Bristol and Taunton and will soon be rolled-out across England and Wales.

Courts minister Christopher Leslie said:

"This is a clear example of courts using technology to improve the reality and perception of the criminal justice system.

"It all adds up to a better deal for victims and witnesses in the court process. It is a practical measure that will help make it easier for victims under great pressure."

© Scoop Media