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CPS stands firm over abuse case

The Crown Prosecution Service has defended itself against accusations that Frances Andrade, the woman who was sexually abused by a choir director and is believed to have killed herself during his trial, was let down by the court system.

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CPS: We hope conviction can comfort the family

Nazir Afzal, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West, said "everyone connected" with the case was extremely saddened by the news of the death of Francis Andrade, who is believed to have taken her own life after giving evidence against sex abuser Michael Brewer, and his wife Kay. He said:

In a way this demonstrates all too clearly the terrible effect that sexual abuse can have on victims for years and decades after the crime.

It underscores why the people who commit these vile acts, and particularly those who target the young, must be pursued and brought to justice.

We know that reliving abuse is extremely difficult and every effort was made to support the victim throughout this prosecution. For now, our thoughts are with the victim's family, and we hope this conviction can provide them with some measure of comfort, however small it may be.

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