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Hertfordshire Home To Region's First "Virtual Court"
Hertfordshire is now home to the region's first ever "virtual court..."
The service at Hatfield Remand Court allows defendants to appear before magistrates via secure videolink from Police Stations.
Twenty cases have been dealt with since the court went live, with defendants often appearing hours within being charged.
The Ministry of Justice says virtual courts will ensure crimes are dealt with more quickly.
Offences dealt with have included theft, assault, breach of a restraining order and driving whilst disqualified.
Since last summer Hatfield police station has been linked to St Albans Magistrates' court to enable police officers to provide evidence from the police station.
Courts Minister, Jonathan Djanogly said: "The first virtual court in Hertfordshire demonstrates the Government’s commitment to working with local police and the courts to ensure speedy and effective justice.
Not only do they enable the quick resolution of cases, they also save time as defendants do not need to be transferred between prison and the court."
Bench Chairman, Cathy Kerby said: "Hertfordshire Magistrates welcome virtual courts as an innovative aid to streamlining the delivery of justice, and making case management in our courts swifter and more effective, to the benefit of all involved."
Hertfordshire Chief Constable Andy Bliss, who chairs the county’s Criminal Justice Board added: "This service has benefits to all agencies in Hertfordshire has been developed against a backdrop of positive partnership working. It is hoped that the advent of virtual courts will mean that justice is delivered more swiftly."
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