Former criminal defence advocate Derek Ogg QC will head up a team of prosecutors specialising in the investigation and prosecution of serious sexual crimes.

The move replicates the dedicated crime units currently working in the US on sexual offences, which MSP Roseanna Cunningham called for in an interview with The Firm in 2008.

The new Crown Counsel team will, it is claimed, "direct these criminal investigations from the earliest stages, providing advice and expertise to Procurators Fiscal. The National Sexual Crimes Unit will also include a dedicated team of specialist Procurators Fiscal."

"For prosecutors, sexual offences are often the most challenging and sensitive cases to bring before a court. However, I am determined that we will continue to do our utmost to bring compelling prosecutions and treat victims with dignity and respect," said Ogg.

"For victims, even the prospect of a criminal investigation and giving evidence in court can be a deterrent to reporting these crimes in the first place. We want them to have confidence that their cases will be handled by specialists equipped to ensure that the prosecution of these crimes is as professional and effective as possible. I look forward to leading the team and building on our existing expertise." 

Lord Advocate Elish Angiolini said that the unit would build on the improvements which were delivered following the review of Sexual Offences last year, led by Dorothy Bain QC, who has since been promoted to Principal Advocate Depute.

"Ms Bain has already created a solid foundation for our new National Sexual Crimes Unit, responsible for the investigation and prosecution of serious sexual crime. I am confident that involving specialist Crown Counsel at an early stage, as well as conducting prosecutions will enhance our approach to some of the most challenging cases that we face as prosecutors," Angiolini said.