West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson has welcomed the ‘Lammy Report’ into the treatment of, and outcomes for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals in the criminal justice system.
Commenting on the report David Jamieson said,
“David Lammy MP yesterday released the results of a inquiry into the treatment of BAME people in the courts and prison system. The major review recommended that defendants should be allowed to plead guilty and go to rehab instead of court.
“David Lammy MP highlighted the success of a pilot diversion scheme in the West Midlands called Turning Point, which found violent offenders were 35% less likely to reoffend if given a Turning Point contract.
“This was an intensive contract which makes offenders face up to their crimes and complete rehabilitation schemes, without going through the court process. If they are successfully rehabilitated then they could have their charges dropped. However, if they show no signs of changing their ways they are prosecuted.
“A common part of the process is for the offender to commit to treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction.
“We are in conversations about how its lessons and successes can be rolled out across the West Midlands.”
Back to News Archive