Criminal Cases Review Commission Update

The Cell Site Analysis experts at Footprint Investigations were delighted to be invited to conduct some training at the Criminal Cases Review Commission recently.

We delivered our latest CPD course ‘Cell Site Analysis in Action’ to a mixed audience of barristers, solicitors, case reviewers and commissioners.

The training was very well received and the audience had many questions. We have trained thousands of lawyers over the last few years, however this course was particularly interesting as the majority of cases dealt with by the commission are from a period prior to the launch of 3G technology. We are used to seeing cell site analysis evidence in the majority of cases, however many of the cases dealt with by the commission are from the days of the early mobile phone. Many of the questions asked were regarding 2G networks or even prior for some older cases.

Much of what is contained within our training course deals with recent changes to mobile phone networks such as 4G and the network consolidations. This would not be relevant maybe for cases currently being reviewed but will become relevant for cases looking to enter the appeal system.

The whole audience had encountered cell site analysis at some point and there was particular interest in how the Crown now deal with cell site analysis evidence in many cases. Particularly the fact that cell site analysis in often done ‘in-house’ by a police analyst or officer, which is understandable given recent financial restrictions. The majority of historic cases involved cell site analysis evidence which had been undertaken by an expert company, whether for prosecution or defence and these changes have had an impact on criminal cases as this type of evidence often falls short.

Many thanks to the organisers and attendees for an enjoyable morning.

If you would like any more information regarding our training courses please contact Denise on 01527 467467 or denise@footprintinvestigations.com