The Scottish Authorities has accredited a authorized help software for the non-public prosecution of disgraced footballer David Goodwillie for rape.
A civil court docket dominated in 2017 that Goodwillie, who now performs for West of Scotland League facet Glasgow United, and former team-mate David Robertson raped Denise Clair, however no felony expenses have been filed towards the pair.
Ms Clair is in search of a uncommon non-public prosecution, the place a person seeks to prosecute quite than the Crown, however is reliant on monetary help from the Authorities to go forward.
After a long-running software, which First Minister John Swinney mentioned in November was taking too lengthy, ministers introduced on Sunday that authorized help had been granted.
Chatting with the Sunday Publish – which has championed Ms Clair’s trigger – she mentioned: “I am elated that after all these years, I can finally begin the journey to proper justice.
“I’ve waited all this time to have the info of this case examined in felony court docket.
“It is disappointing that the Scottish Government made me wait an agonising extra year for a decision they could have made in 24 hours given they agree how exceptional this case is.”
She added: “I’m determined to see this journey to the bitter end for me and every other rape victim let down by our criminal justice system.”
The newspaper reported that the funding quantities to simply £2,500.
A spokesperson for the Scottish Authorities mentioned: “This has been a particularly unique and complex case which required detailed consideration.
“After cautious evaluation ministers have determined to award authorized help on this case.”