Number of rape case charges ‘lagging behind’ other crimes

Over the border in Wales, the figure is higher with one in every 24 rape allegations reported to Dyfed Powys Police leading to a charge.

However, both forces have today said reports of sex offences are taken very seriously.

Between April and June this year, 258 rape cases were closed by West Mercia Police.

Of those, just 17 resulted in a suspect being charged or ordered to appear in court.

In more than 40 per cent of rape reports, the case was closed because of lack of evidence, with the victim unwilling to support further police action.

During the same period in Dyfed Powys, 72 rape cases were closed by the force and, of those, just three resulted in a suspect being charged and sent to court.

Policing Lead for Telford and Shropshire, Chief Superintendent Kevin Purcell, said: “I would like offer my assurances that every report of rape we receive is thoroughly investigated with officers doing all they can to ensure justice for the victim and that a file of evidence is presented to the court with the intention of securing a conviction.

“It is vitally important to us that victims of rape have the confidence to come forward and report these to police knowing that they will be believed and we will carry out a thorough investigation to do all we can to secure the best possible outcome for them.”

Across England and Wales, a suspect was charged in four cent of rape cases and eight per cent of other sexual offences.

Detective Superintendent Anthony Griffiths for Dyfed Powys Police said the force’s conviction rate for rape and sexual offences remains higher than the national average.

He added: “We take all reports of a sexual nature seriously, and ensure victims of these crimes receive the support they need.

“I can offer reassurance that we will continue to deal robustly with such crimes, particularly those committed against the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

Sexual violence charity Rape Crisis has said the justice system is failing victims and survivors of rape.

Katie Russell said: “Despite record numbers of people who’ve experienced these serious offences coming forward to report to the police, criminal justice outcomes are lagging far behind those for other violent crimes.”