Criminal Cases Review Commission told to urgently improve after Malkinson failings

The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) has been instructed to make urgent improvements following a critical inspection report that highlighted serious failings in its handling of cases, particularly the wrongful conviction of Andrew Malkinson. The inspection, conducted by Anthony Rogers, the chief inspector of the Crown Prosecution Service, examined 60 cases and found a "lack of proactive, effective casework quality assurance" that needs to be addressed immediately.

The commission faced heavy criticism after Malkinson spent 17 years in prison for a rape he did not commit. His applications to the CCRC were rejected twice until his legal team conducted DNA testing that later led to his release. A review indicated he could have been freed a decade earlier if the CCRC had obtained new DNA evidence in 2009.

The watchdog made 34 recommendations to address weaknesses, delays, and inefficiencies. Rogers stated that while implementing these changes could significantly improve the CCRC's service, it would not guarantee the absence of future high-profile failures. He emphasized the need for better case strategy, monitoring of progress, and avoiding unnecessary investigations.

Currently, the CCRC is handling 102 long-running cases and has seen a sustained rise in applications, with 1,841 received in 2025-26. Rogers acknowledged a "chequered history" and "cultural issues" within the organization, but concluded it is ultimately fit for purpose. He noted that staff are committed and generally make sound decisions, but need to focus on "the right things" rather than nugatory lines of inquiry.

The report comes after the resignation of the CCRC's chief executive and chair, with Dame Vera Baird appointed as interim chair to lead reforms. The actual perpetrator, Paul Quinn, was sentenced to 21 years in prison last month.