Legal issues
Examples can include fabricating or destroying evidence, false allegations in sufficiently serious circumstances, interference with witnesses, giving false information designed to divert an investigation or conduct intended to frustrate proceedings.
Intention is critical. The prosecution must prove the defendant intended to pervert the course of justice or intended to do something which, if achieved, would have that effect.
Evidence that matters
Evidence may include messages, call records, documents, CCTV, device downloads, witness statements, police logs, chronology of the underlying case and material showing what the defendant knew about the investigation or proceedings.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Enquiries may include obtaining the full underlying investigation file where relevant, complete communications rather than extracts, document metadata, CCTV, witness evidence and material bearing on whether the alleged act could realistically affect the course of justice and what the defendant intended.
What happens next
Perverting the course of justice is indictable only and carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. It is usually investigated as a separate serious allegation linked to an existing or anticipated investigation or proceeding.
Immediate steps
Preserve the full communications and documents surrounding the alleged act. Do not delete, amend or recreate material. Avoid contact with witnesses or parties that could itself create further allegations.
What should you send us?
Send the allegation/charge, underlying case details, messages/documents relied upon, police papers, chronology and next date.