DPP: Evidence, including texts & CCTV, contradicted Ms. de Freitas's account.

Ever since the press had come out over a month ago I had been waiting for the DPP to make a statement about the case. But no one knew what she was going to speak out, last of all me.

She had been heavily criticised by Mr de Freitas in the press, so it was expected she would confirm that the evidence in the case against Eleanor was strong.

What she had to say would be really important. The DPP is effectively in charge of all the criminal cases in England and Wales. That's everything from murder to speeding fines. Her word would be taken seriously. If she said there was evidence to show that I was innocent then that would be amazing. 

Finally on the 9th December 2014 the DPP, Alison Saunders made a public statement

Saunders emphasised that there was strong evidence against Eleanor de Freitas, including text messages and CCTV footage that directly contradicted her account of the alleged rape. The decision to prosecute was explicitly based on this concrete evidence rather than stereotypes about how victims of sexual assault should behave.

She also confirmed that the CPS thoroughly considered Eleanor de Freitas' mental health before deciding to prosecute. A detailed psychiatric report, commissioned by Ms de Freitas' own legal team, concluded she was aware of the implications of her actions and was mentally fit to stand trial. No additional medical evidence was subsequently provided that would have justified discontinuing the prosecution.

And explained that it was highly unusual to prosecute without initial police support, as happened here. The police had not carried out their own investigation into the allegation of perverting justice and were not able to form a view on the evidence.

 

Below: Alison Saunders, Director of Public Prosecutions