The Scottish Government launched a public inquiry into the 2005 murder of Emma Caldwell, which drew significant attention to failures in the police investigation.
In a statement to Parliament, Scotland's Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance, announced that an “independent, judge-led, statutory public inquiry” into the incident would take place. Mr Constance said preparations for a public inquiry would begin immediately. However, details regarding the incident itself will not be made public.
She went on to say:There is no question that it was a grave failure that left a grieving family fighting for their rights, Emma's rights, and justice. ” “[i]Now is the time to bring new scrutiny to this case, understand what went wrong, ensure lessons are learned for the future, and provide answers for all victims and survivors of this case. . ” She also emphasized the importance of “eradication.”[ing] The scourge of violence against women. It's about addressing the root causes. ”
Constance also highlighted the role that the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform Bill, introduced on 25 April 2023, will play in improving the justice system, adding:[a] In efforts to prevent violence against women and girls, a consistent and strong response across the justice system, from the initial charge to the end of the trial, is critical. ”
Emma Caldwell's case has sparked significant criticism of the poor police response and the failure of the justice system to address violence against sex workers. A man was arrested in connection with her death in 2022, convicted nearly 20 years later, and sentenced to 36 years in prison.
