Rape victims can challenge CPS if cases dropped under pilot scheme

Exclusive: Trial giving right to request review of evidence by different prosecutor could be extended to all of England and Wales

Victims of rape and serious sexual assault who face their cases being dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service will be given the right to request a review under a government pilot.

The six-month scheme, which will launch on Friday in the West Midlands, will give victims the right to ask for their case to be reviewed by a different prosecutor if the CPS indicates it intends to offer no evidence.