Racism prosecutions rise by 81%

The number of court prosecutions over racist incidents has increased by 81%, say crown prosecutors in Dorset.

Figures released by the Crown Prosecution Service reveal there were 56 such prosecutions in 2004/2005 compared to 31 in the year before.

They say 70% of those cases - involving 39 defendants - lead to a conviction on a racially-aggravated charge.

The report shows that a high number of attacks were on takeaway or restaurant staff and taxi-drivers.

Victims in Dorset feel more confident to report crime knowing that the criminal justice system will take these matters seriously John Revell, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Dorset

John Revell, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Dorset, said: "I am pleased to see the increase in the number of prosecutions and to see a high number have resulted in convictions.

"The criminal justice system has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at encouraging victims to report racist incidents.

"I feel the increase in the number of cases is a result of this work and that victims in Dorset feel more confident to report crime knowing that the criminal justice system will take these matters seriously and that the Crown Prosecution Service is committed to robustly prosecuting them."

David Shire, the chief officer of the Dorset Race Equality Council, said that victims of racist incidents were "feeling more confident in the system".