Deborah Demick named new chief inspector of prosecution

She succeeds Laura Paton who has been in the position since 2019.

Mrs Demick has significant experience working in the Crown Office having held roles since 1999, currently as deputy head of national homicide team and road traffic fatalities investigation unit.

Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC said: “I welcome Deborah’s appointment. She will bring to the role an in-depth prosecutorial knowledge and shares our commitment to improving peoples’ experiences of Scotland’s criminal justice system.

“I am grateful for Laura Paton’s work as HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution over the past six years and have greatly valued her insight and assessment of the work of COPFS.”

Mrs Demick said: “I am proud and delighted to be appointed as the new HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution in Scotland. The work of the Inspectorate is vital in letting the public know how the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal (COPFS) investigates and prosecutes crime and investigates all sudden and suspicious deaths. Independent scrutiny is vital in supporting COPFS to develop effective and compassionate services for all.

“I have a clear vision of how we can make a positive difference, continue to drive improvements and build a modern prosecution service with the right tools and training to deliver effective and compassionate justice and death investigations across Scotland.”