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Dame Vera Baird KC, the new interim chairwoman of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), has expressed her determination to overhaul the beleaguered legal appeals body. In an interview with BBC, she emphasized her commitment to doing “whatever it takes” to address the issues plaguing the CCRC and eliminate the underlying culture that has hindered its progress. Appointed by the government to lead a review of the CCRC and restore public trust in the organization’s work investigating potential miscarriages of justice, Dame Vera is focused on implementing necessary reforms.
Formerly serving as the victims commissioner and a government minister, Dame Vera stepped into her new role following the resignation of her predecessor, Helen Pitcher, amidst the fallout from Andrew Malkinson’s wrongful conviction. Speaking on BBC Radio 4 Today programme, she underscored the critical role the CCRC plays in the criminal justice system while criticizing its current state. Dame Vera pointed out the agency’s repeated failures to learn from past mistakes, referencing similarities between Mr. Malkinson’s case and that of Victor Nealon, who had spent 17 years wrongfully imprisoned for attempted rape.
Addressing the need for accountability within the CCRC, Dame Vera revealed her intention to engage with the organization’s leadership, including chief executive Karen Kneller, to discuss their positions and the handling of miscarriages of justice cases. Mr. Malkinson’s case, where he languished in prison for 17 years before his wrongful conviction was overturned in July 2023, prompted an independent review that exposed systemic failures within the CCRC. This scrutiny has prompted Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood to seek the removal of Ms. Pitcher from her position as CCRC chair, leading to her subsequent resignation in January.
Reflecting on the possibility of more cases akin to Malkinson’s, Dame Vera expressed concerns about the CCRC’s effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate rigorously and positively. Following the public scrutiny on the handling of past cases, particularly those involving DNA evidence in serious crimes, the CCRC initiated an internal review to address potential oversights. As a seasoned criminal barrister with a distinguished career in public service, Dame Vera brings a wealth of experience to her new role, aiming to steer the CCRC towards a more effective and accountable future
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