CPS 'respects' not guilty verdicts in Le Vell trial

This case was reviewed in great detail, and the evidence subject to careful scrutiny before a decision was taken to prosecute.

On the basis of the reviews the CPS concluded that there was sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction.

As these were very serious allegations of child sexual abuse it therefore followed that it was in the public interest to place that evidence before a jury at court.

Whilst the CPS needs to consider if a conviction is realistic, the jury needs to be sure that the defendant is guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

The jury have had an opportunity over the course of the trial to hear and fully consider both the prosecution and the defence cases.

It is for the jury to determine whether a defendant is guilty or not and we of course respect the verdicts they have reached today.