Victim impact statements ‘used to influence judges’

A retired High Court judge has claimed victims of crime sometimes use victim impact statements to try to influence a judge ahead of sentencing.

Justice Barry White, who sat for the final time at the Central Criminal Court last week, made the comments as he gave his opinion on victim impact statements in general. He said the statements have a value for the victim or their family.

“Quite clearly, they are essential from that point of view,” he said. “They also assist in determining the effect the crime has had on the individual.”