Karen Buckley murder: Outrage as judge claims student ‘put herself in vulnerable position’

A judge has caused controversy and outrage after suggesting that murdered student Karen Buckley ‘put herself in a vulnerable position’

rexfeatures_4666311a

by Closer staff |
Published on

Speaking at Worcester Magistrates Court, Judge Nigel Cadbury claimed that the 24-year-old student put herself in danger simply by going out drinking with her friends.

Despite the details of Karen’s last hours not being known nor clear to the public, Judge Cadbury said: "I find it incredible that young people can get so drunk that they don't even know who they're with.

"One only has to think about the horrible situation in Glasgow to see how serious this could have been.

"It's very, very worrying how young girls put themselves in such very, very vulnerable positions."

Sarah Green, who is Acting Director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition told The Mirror that she found Judge Cadbury’s comments deeply concerning.

Sarah Green described Judge Cadbury's comments as making attackers 'invisible'

She said: “District Judge Nigel Cadbury seems to be perpetuating the idea that young women drinking alcohol put themselves at risk of attack.

"Even if it is not meant, this implies that sexual violence is in some way inevitable and it is women's responsibility to avoid it.

"It makes the perpetrators of these crimes all but invisible.”

Karen’s alcohol levels in her blood have so far not been mentioned by police, nor has there been any suggestion that she was drunk.

After it was revealed that the student nurse left Glasgow nightclub Sanctuary without her leather jacket, it has emerged that Irish-born Karen had given it to a friend to cover up a broken zip.

At present, a man has been arrested in connection with her murder.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us