'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 disbelief, stating, 'We had to sit there and listen to all the nice things people had to say about him used as mitigating circumstances.' This highlights the emotional turmoil faced by victims in court."

"Despite legislative changes, referees are still not required to stand by their words in court, raising concerns about accountability in the judicial process."

Recent changes in legislation have not led to referees being required to stand by their words in court. This was highlighted in a high-profile case where victims, Miriam Henry and her sister, expressed disbelief as positive tributes about their abuser were presented as mitigating circumstances. The emotional impact on the victims was profound as they had to endure hearing commendations for someone who had caused them significant harm during their childhood.

Read at Independent