News release

Report Examining Justice System's Response Released

Justice

The report examining the response of the justice system into the deaths last February of Lori Lee Maxwell and Bruce Allen George, in Truro, was released today by Justice Minister Michael Baker.

The Department of Justice examined whether the protocols outlined in the Framework for Action Against Family Violence were appropriately followed by police, courts, corrections and victims services.

The report concludes that police did not properly follow the protocols, although the courts, corrections and victims services did. The report provides several recommendations to address operational concerns, which include training for police and the development of a comprehensive case management system.

As well, the report recommends an independent assessment be undertaken to examine the current status of the Framework for Action Against Family Violence from a provincial perspective. The assessment will recommend whether further action is needed to ensure the relevance and effectiveness of the framework for all components of the justice system.

"This was a tragic event that once again underscores the need for a co-ordinated response to incidents of family violence," said the minister. "The report offers some concrete recommendations for police - but more importantly it recommends we take another look at our approach to family violence from a broader perspective. I will be accepting all recommendations contained in the report."


NOTE TO EDITORS: The report is available at www.gov.ns.ca/just/reportlink.htm