The use of character references in sexual crime cases should be reformed urgently, campaigners have told BBC News NI. Haileigh Ashton Lamont, a victim of sexual abuse who now works with survivors, ...

"In the meantime, the department would urge everyone to exercise personal responsibility when it comes to providing character references for use by a court," it added. There are two common ways in ...

"In the meantime, the department would urge everyone to exercise personal responsibility when it comes to providing character references for use by a court," it added. When are character ...

Victim of paedophile fire chief slams use of character references in sex offence sentencings Woman abused by church youth leader says hearing about ‘how nice he was’ in court traumatic: 'The ...

The lead prosecutor in Sam Kerr's racial harassment trial has warned a series of glowing character references - including ... cam footage and played to the court. Kerr and her fiancée Kristie ...

The court heard McCurtrie had a history of drug use dating back to age 15. Boaden Jai McMurtrie. While he had a short period of sobriety, it was revealed that he was once again using drugs ...

Facing an attacker while standing in court giving evidence as a victim ... senior and respected members of the public provide character references for that abuser must feel like such a damaging ...