- The CPS’s new action plan was informed by corpus linguistics research by the Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics (AIFL) and Aston’s Department of Communication and Culture
- Aston University’s research has provided critical insights into language patterns used by police and prosecutors
- The collaborative effort sets a new standard for addressing racial disparities within the justice system.
Aston University has played a pivotal role in research that has shaped an ambitious action plan by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to eliminate racial bias in prosecution decisions. The initiative marks a significant step towards addressing racial disproportionality within the criminal justice system.
The CPS’s new action plan, is informed by a programme of research including corpus linguistics research conducted by a team of linguists at the Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics (AIFL) and Aston’s Department of Communication and Culture. The plan represents a robust response to findings of racial disparity in prosecution decisions. The team, led by Dr Nicci MacLeod and Dr Robbie Love, investigated differences in the language used by police and prosecutors in case files for mixed ethnicity suspects and white British suspects.
While explicit racism was not identified, mixed ethnicity suspects and their actions were described in more negative and prosecution-worthy terms, which framed them in a more blameworthy manner. Differences in language, such as the use of more definitive and direct terms for mixed ethnicity suspects, highlighted potential areas for unconscious bias.
The research is central to the CPS’s broader efforts to ensure fairness and transparency in its processes. It has illuminated key areas where unconscious bias could affect decision-making, emphasising the need for systemic change.
The CPS’s plan includes revising the Code for Crown Prosecutors, implementing digital tools to identify potential racial bias in cases, and establishing collaborative boards with police and community groups to ensure accountability and fairness. Aston University’s research is a cornerstone of these efforts, contributing to an evidence base to drive meaningful reform.
Dr Nicci MacLeod, deputy director of the Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics, said:
“Our corpus linguistics approach has allowed us to uncover subtle yet significant patterns in language that may unconsciously influence decision-making.
“We are proud to contribute to such a vital initiative that will positively impact the lives of many across the UK, reaffirming Aston University’s commitment to improving equity and justice through innovative research and collaboration. By advancing understanding of systemic issues, we aim to play a key role in building a fairer society for all.
“I would like to thank the rest of team for all their hard work, and give special mention to our late colleague Dr Márton Petykó who was a driving force in the early stages of this project.”
- Notes to Editors
More about the team
Dr Nicci MacLeod, Dr Robbie Love, Dr Márton Petykó, Dr Annina Heini, Dr Ralph Morton, Dr Joyce Lim, Chloe Ashton and Elizabeth Hay.
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
Be first to get the latest news, research and expert comment from Aston
by following us on XNeed an expert for your story? Browse our experts directory