How a smashed-up yellow gnome got me thinking about how we could keep victims updated with police process ...
Sometimes, when you work for a software company, it’s from chatting to friends on country walks or over dinner, you realise how versatile your work could be. Recently, it was a conversation about a garden gnome that made the penny drop for me.
I work at Ctrl O, and we provide LinkSpace - a data and workflow platform that lets departments securely share controlled information. In the police context, LinkSpace could allow victims to see, or share, updates on their case which would provide much needed transparency and peace of mind.
A friend recently went through a difficult time when their 80- year old father faced a violent break-in attempt, where a yellow garden gnome was repeatedly smashed against a window to try and break in. They told me it was almost comedic if it hadn’t been alarming – the perpetrators used a ladder to try and get in upstairs, and smashed an outside glass table. it was all so loud, it was actually neighbours who called the police at 4 AM. Fortunately they did not get in and the father was OK, proudly claiming he’d have “given them a good telling off” if he’d seen them!
Another friend has faced years of harassment from a neighbour, suffering property damage and even assault. The police were personable and approachable in both cases, and in the case of the break in attempt, the broken gnome was actually dusted for fingerprints! Multiple visits and phone calls occurred.
The friend with the neighbour has had a long case that has dragged on over 2 years. He told me he has had to repeat his story frequently, and often to different officers, which was exhausting, especially when staff moved on. He also found out that there were legal deadlines he wasn’t aware of, such as that a common assault must be charged within 6 months of the offence.
Despite the best efforts of the police, who are of course, extremely busy, both of these people said that some frustrations and difficulties had come with navigating the criminal justice system. They said they’d have liked clearer communication and transparency about what was happening next.
Where Technology Can Step In
Digital tools could help solve many of these problems, giving victims a clearer understanding of their cases, improving communication with the police, and providing much-needed transparency and accountability.
I believe secure cloud software, like our LinkSpace software, can play a significant role in reshaping how victims interact with the criminal justice system. Here's how:
Access to Case Details
A platform like LinkSpace could securely display key case updates for victims, controlled by the police to show relevant information—such as notes of phone conversations and upcoming dates—without overwhelming details. This visibility can reassure victims that progress is being made.
Clear Communication of the Process
LinkSpace could outline the steps and timelines across the police, CPS, and courts, providing victims with a transparent roadmap. Officers could upload their anticipated plan relevant to the the type of crime and circumstances. From a dashboard, the victim would be able to access links to reference materials, key legal terms and support services or agencies.
Communication Records
Emotionally charged conversations with police can make it hard to retain details. A log summarising interactions would help victims remember important points and understand their options. Also, it would reduce reliance and risks by removing the need to communicate by email, a real advantage in domestic abuse cases for example.
Managing Expectations
With regular updates and timelines, victims would no longer need to chase officers for status updates. Automated alerts and reminders would ensure both victims and police remain informed, reducing uncertainty and building trust.
Streamlining Evidence Submission
Victims could upload evidence, like logs, photos or videos, directly to their case. With drop down menus for specific details, the system could provide guidance on relevant information to share, helping victims to feel more in control and able to more effectively support their case.
Reducing Repetition
A central platform would prevent victims from having to repeatedly recount their story. Instead, all relevant information would be available in one place, reducing the frustration and emotional toll of retelling traumatic experiences.
Police Effectiveness and Efficiency
A reliable, secure platform not only supports victims but would improve police efficiency and effectiveness. It would allow officers to focus on case progress rather than routine updates and duplication of effort.
A Step Towards Empowerment
Giving victims more visibility and control over their case isn’t just about improving efficiency—it's about empowering people during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. Tools like LinkSpace can bridge the gap between victims and the justice system, ensuring that the people most affected by crime aren’t left in the dark.
Final Thoughts
Software here could provide clarity, reduce frustration, and help victims feel heard and supported. In the experience of the friend with the neighbour, technology like LinkSpace could have saved months of confusion and stress, and saved the police a lot of time too. And that’s got to be worth exploring! .
You can find out more about how Ctrl O and our LinkSpace platform at www.ctrlo.com
Justice and Emergency Services Programme activities
The techUK Justice and Emergency Services Programme represents tech firms operating in the public safety, criminal justice, and blue light markets. We create strong relationships between members and public sector customers, encouraging industry engagement, and unlocking innovation. Visit the programme page here.
2024 Highlights and 2025 Vision: Reflections and Roadmaps for AI, Skills and Procurement
To wrap up the year, the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme is excited to host an afternoon of insightful fireside chats, powered by the Justice and Emergency Services Management Committee (JESMC).
Our members develop strong networks, build meaningful partnerships and grow their businesses as we all work together to create a thriving environment where industry, government and stakeholders come together to realise the positive outcomes tech can deliver.
Georgie joined techUK as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager in March 2020, then becoming Head of Programme in January 2022.
Georgie leads techUK's engagement and activity across our blue light and criminal justice services, engaging with industry and stakeholders to unlock innovation, problem solve, future gaze and highlight the vital role technology plays in the delivery of critical public safety and justice services. The JES programme represents suppliers by creating a voice for those who are selling or looking to break into and navigate the blue light and criminal justice markets.
Prior to joining techUK, Georgie spent 4 and a half years managing a Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP) in Westminster. She worked closely with the Metropolitan Police and London borough councils to prevent and reduce the impact of crime on the business community. Her work ranged from the impact of low-level street crime and anti-social behaviour on the borough, to critical incidents and violent crime.
Cinzia joined techUK in August 2023 as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager.
The JES programme represents suppliers, championing their interests in the blue light and criminal justice markets, whether they are established entities or newcomers seeking to establish their presence.
Prior to joining techUK, Cinzia worked in the third and public sectors, managing projects related to international trade and social inclusion.
Ella joined techUK in November 2023 as a Markets Team Assistant, supporting the Justice and Emergency Services, Central Government and Financial Services Programmes.
Before joining the team, she was working at the Magistrates' Courts in legal administration and graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2022. Ella attained an undergraduate degree in History and Politics, and a master's degree in International Relations and Security Studies, with a particular interest in studying asylum rights and gendered violence.
In her spare time she enjoys going to the gym, watching true crime documentaries, travelling, and making her best attempts to become a better cook.
