Cyber courts hand out instant justice in shopping malls

Police are in talks about setting up "virtual" courtrooms where offenders will be sentenced via video links to magistrates. The plan was revealed today as Justice Secretary Jack Straw opened London's first such scheme at Camberwell Green magistrates' court.

Mr Straw said: "Virtual courts have the potential to transform how the justice system deals with crimes."

The Camberwell court is linked to Charing Cross police station and has already dealt with two drink-driving cases while the system was being tested last week. One driver pleaded guilty at a police station and was sentenced less than four hours after he was caught.

Eventually the scheme is designed to save £10 million a year in courtroom administration and prison transport costs. Over the summer 14 police stations across London will be linked to the system, handling an estimated 15,000 cases a year.

For anyone accused of an offence, taking part in the pilot scheme is voluntary. Defendants could also be bailed or remanded in custody at the courts if they are suspected of a more serious offence.

Senior police sources say they are examining the possibility of extending the scheme to shopping centres which deal with a high volume of petty offenders. Critics of the plan say it could limit the ability of defence lawyers to put together a strong case and undermine the gravitas of the judicial process by making it appear like a reality TV game.

But Mr Straw said the courts "are vital in the Government's drive to deliver swift justice — resolving cases faster, freeing up police time and improving the service given to victims, witnesses and defendants".

He added: "Although at an early stage, this pilot helps the courts, police, prosecutors, defence lawyers and the judiciary work better together to deliver quicker and more effective justice without any loss of quality.

"The faster we get justice done, the more we improve public confidence in the criminal justice system as whole."

If successful, the London pilot could save £2.2 million a year. Other police stations taking part include Brixton, Kennington, Streatham, Peckham, Walworth, Lewisham, Plumstead, Bromley, Croydon, South Norwood, Sutton, Paddington Green, Belgravia and Bexleyheath.