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Older People: Prosecuting Crimes against

Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.

All CPS guidance

AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.

This guidance addresses the prosecution of crimes against older individuals, defining a crime against an older person as any criminal offence involving a victim aged 60 or over. It emphasizes the importance of understanding victim vulnerability and highlights several key considerations, including public interest factors in prosecution decisions and the specific issues involved in cases of neglect and abuse of older individuals. It also discusses the relevance of age during case review and management, as well as providing procedural considerations for the prosecution of related crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual offences.

Key points

  • Victim's circumstances and harm are crucial in public interest decisions.
  • Cases involving older victims must be flagged for tracking and monitoring.
  • Prosecutors should not make stereotypes about older victims regarding their capabilities.
  • Cross-referencing with relevant CPS guidance is essential for case management.
  • Support for older victims is crucial for their mental and physical well-being during prosecution.
  • Prosecutors should consider the impact of prosecution on the victim's health.

Public-interest factors

  • Victim's vulnerability increases the likelihood of prosecution.
  • Breach of trust between suspect and victim is a critical factor.
  • Any form of prejudice or exploitation against the victim must be considered.
  • Injuries to the victim heighten the seriousness of the offence.
  • Prior criminal history of the suspect affects prosecution decisions.
  • Continuing risk to others must be assessed.
Fraud and economic crimeHate crimeDomestic abuseRape and sexual offencesNeglectWilful neglectIll-treatment by care workersControlling or coercive behaviourAbuse of positionCausing serious harm
Read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk
Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 8 July 2026 · Next review due: 8 January 2027

This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.