I think it is about time that they introduced this law into Britain, personally I find all these 'historic' charges against famous people extremely annoying, one person makes an accusation and hundreds more jump on the bandwagon, probably a bit cynical but why does compensation keep coming to mind. On the news this afternoon that someone has accused Cliff Richard of an offence that he allegedly committed 30 years ago!!!! I still can't believe they have jailed Rolf Harris for offences 40 & 50 years ago, surely our prisons should be for people who are a threat to the public? if Rolf Harris ever was a threat he certainly isn't anymore at the age of 84!!! This is a rather interesting bit on the subject, what do others think? http://www.theopinionsite.org/should-britain-have-a-statute-of-limitations-on-sex-crimes/ Val
Don't believe that for one moment Val! A neighbour of mine years ago was convicted and imprisoned at 82 years of age for child molesting offences.
I see no reason to put a time limit on anything. The problem I have is with the total failure of our judicial system. "Innocent until proven guilty" allegedly. But nowadays it seems more like "Potentially guilty just needing a rumour or unsubstantiated allegation to confirm guilt". If someone was assaulted 40, 50 or even 60 years ago, it is fair enough that they should be allowed to pursue the case, but it should be on the basis that they have actual tangible and credible evidence. We should not forget that even if someone is found to be not guilty, they still have their life ruined. Its like the chap a few weeks ago that was found not guilty, publicly fuming because he still had to pay many thousands of pounds for his defence bill.
I still say "British justice" is pretty crap, its mostly revolving around rip off lawyers making as much money as they can screw out the system and the client. Its in nobodys interest, (apart from the client), to get it over quick, all the professionals want to string things out as long as possible. Afterall its better than working for a living.
See, this whole thing pulls me in two different directions. Anyone sexually assaulting anyone else regardless of age is just plain wrong When kids are involved it is even worse. Punishment should be swift and severe - end of. However, what I have a problem with is the immediate presumption of guilt; I was brought up to believe that the justice system in this country meant that everyone is not guilty until proven otherwisethe 'trial by media' that seems to take place; on more than one occasion when cases like this have arisen, I have spoken to people and the words "Well that doesn't surprise me at all - I always thought they were shifty/a bit of a creep etc etc etc" - and that is just as the news of an investigation has begunthe complete lack of physical evidence - there simply cannot be any physical evidence so far down the line, so its all boiling down to statements from potential witnesses and balance of probability - fundamentally NOT what the UK justice system is based upon. I wish to complain that X felt my bum/boobies/bits when I was 12. Fred over there will tell you - he saw how creepy X was 40 years ago, and he remembers me sitting on X's knee/standing next to X on stage - that was when X did it. Now, call me harsh/cynical or otherwise but how in the name of the wee man can ANYONE have clear recollection of events 40-60 years ago? I can barely remember what I did this morning, so my chances of recalling what happened to a friend years ago is pretty slim, and if I did have any recollection, I would not want to guarantee that it was 100% accurate.
PS - Just a reminder ladies and gents that for legal reasons we are not to discuss specific cases, particularly those where there has been no judgement in a court of law. Please also remember that this is an emotive subject, and opinions will differ significantly; knowing that the vast majority if not all of GC members are mature and intelligent individuals, I trust that this can be discussed in a sensible and civil manner. [/moderator mode into standby]
