Return to normal view

The OPP welcomes its new Solicitor for Public Prosecutions

The Office of Public Prosecutions is pleased to welcome Mr Craig Hyland as the new Solicitor for Public Prosecutions, Victoria.

Mr Hyland was appointed to the role by the Governor in Council on 3 February 2009 and will take office on 9 March.  Mr Hyland is currently the Assistant Solicitor (Operations) of the New South Wales ODPP.

For the past eight months Mr Stuart Ward has been Acting Solicitor, a role he assumed at one of the most critical phases of the Office's 25 year history, namely in the middle of a complex organisational restructure.

Speaking of Mr Ward's contribution, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Jeremy Rapke Q.C. said: "Since Stuart assumed the mantle of leadership in May last year he has made a significant contribution to the modernization of the office.

The reforms and restructuring that he oversaw put the OPP in forefront of governmental practice. His concerns for the victims of crime has seen the OPP transformed into a highly responsive, stronger, and more efficient prosecutorial agency with a clear focus on ensuring that the voices of victims are always heard.

Stuart provided the Chief Crown Prosecutor, Gavin Silbert S.C. and me with sound and comprehensive advice, and I thank him for his achievements, professionalism and friendship."

Mr Ward will resume his permanent role as the OPP's Legal Practice Manager in March.

Media contact: Ann Strunks, Senior Communications Adviser.