Police President Admits Recent Changes Could Complicate Police Work

Bratislava, 19 December (TASR) - Changes to the Criminal Procedure Code regarding the testimony of cooperating defendants could complicate police work, admitted Police Corps President Jana Maskarova when responding to a journalist's question during a press conference on Friday, noting that lawmakers didn't consult the police in advance. "Frankly, my legal opinion is that it certainly will, given how the elements of offence are currently worded," said Maskarova when asked whether the legislation will make the situation more difficult for the police. Maskarova emphasised that the police respect the laws that have been adopted. However, she believes that adjustments to the wording of the law could help. Parliament has approved an amendment to the Penal Code, which includes several changes added during the sessions of parliamentary committees, such as modifying the status of cooperating defendants. Under the new rules, their testimonies might not be admissible as evidence in certain cases. Parliament debated the amendment via a fast-tracked legislative procedure. During the vote, opposition MPs chanted "shame" and blew whistles to express their disapproval. Disagreement with the amendment was also voiced by 152 prosecutors who signed a joint statement claiming that it will be impossible to prosecute certain serious crimes under the new rules. jrg/df