The Global Prosecutors’ E-Crime Network (GPEN) has been developed by the high-tech crime unit of the UK Crown Prosecution Service’s (CPS) international division, in conjunction with the International Association of Prosecutors (IAP). It will comprise a database of e-crime prosecutors, a channel for exchanging advice, and host e-crime material including a virtual college.
Unveiling a prototype website at the IAP conference in Singapore, Baroness Scotland said: “It is widely recognised that e-crime is the most rapidly expanding form of criminality and knows no borders. Prosecutors play a very significant role in combating e-crime, and their advice at an early stage of police investigation can be fundamental to success. The world of high-tech crime is ever changing and those fighting it have to keep up to date. This international network will speed up safe communication between specialists, enabling prosecutors to share best practice and training, and raise standards across continents.”
The GPEN website is expected to be fully operational next year. The site will house a database of e-crime prosecutors from across the world, a message board for exchanging advice and queries, a collection of e-crime material such as legal guidance and a virtual e-crime prosecutors’ college containing up-to-date training.
The Council of Europe, Eurojust, the USA, Australia and the Bahamas have all endorsed the project. Specialist prosecutors from individual countries will be urged to become involved in the network through their membership of the IAP.
