'It ended not on our victim statements, but on kind words about our abusive brother. It was absolutely horrific' - survivors hit out at court character references

"Miriam Henry expressed her frustration, stating, 'We had to sit there and listen to all the nice things people had to say about him used as mitigating circumstances.' This reflects the emotional turmoil faced by victims during court proceedings."

Recent high-profile cases reveal that referees are still not required to stand by their statements in court, even after legislative changes. Victims, like Miriam Henry and her sister, express disbelief as positive tributes about their abuser are presented as mitigating circumstances during court proceedings. This situation highlights ongoing issues in the judicial system regarding the treatment of victims and the accountability of referees.

Read at Independent