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<p>A “Stafford statement” is not a CPS requirement, but is used by some police forces
to seek the consent of the complainant to access material held by third parties when
this is relevant to the investigation.</p><p>It is of vital importance that the personal
information of complainants who report sexual offences is treated in a way that is
consistent with both their right to privacy and with the interests of justice. CPS
guidance is clear that requests for access to information held by third parties or
on digital devices must be a reasonable line of inquiry, justified by the circumstances
of the individual case. It should not be undertaken routinely in every case.</p><p>As
part of the National Disclosure Improvement Plan, the CPS are working closely with
the police to ensure that complainants are given the opportunity to make an informed
decision about allowing police access to their personal information. This will ensure
that complainants are aware of both how their digital devices or records will be examined
and the use that may be made of any data obtained through that examination, including
informing the complainant if it is to be disclosed to the defendant.</p>
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