WA news LIVE: WA to scrap good character references in court sentencings

Good character references will no longer be considered during sentencings in West Australian courts.

The announcement is expected to be made by WA Attorney General Tony Buti this morning in the wake of Western Power standing down three employees for providing glowing character references for a colleague who was convicted of raping a woman during a work trip.

“The Cook Labor Government is committed to protecting the community, and our decision to scrap good character references at sentencing hearings ensure that victims are always put first,” he said.

“I have had meetings with advocates for victim-survivors and heard how distressing it can be when a criminal’s professional standing and community reputation are used to try to reduce their sentence.