Police investigators of rape are diverted away from their main roles too often, say official inspectors. In some forces inspected, such personnel ‘are routinely diverted to supporting events such as football matches and festivals’, according to His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
Nearly all forces inspected struggle to recruit detectives, HMICFRS found. It called for ‘appropriate pay, progression and support for detective constables’. The inspectorate found some forces using student officers or trainee detectives to fill gaps, joining investigating teams on attachment. As for supervision, one told inspectors that ‘the force was letting down victims. They said some who had reported rape in 2021 still haven’t had any updates because investigators are so busy.’ Investigators’ workloads varied a lot – some had eight cases, or 15; or 40. Inspectors found ‘no consistent approach to identifying and disrupting repeat suspects across forces’.
What they say
His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Michelle Skeer said: “For too long, victims of rape and serious sexual offences have been failed by the criminal justice system. Many struggle to come forward, out of fear of not being believed or being unable to access support.
“It is crucial the police respond effectively to these devastating crimes. That’s why Operation Soteria sets out a new approach and model in response, grounded in decades of research examining policing practice. Out of nine forces inspected so far, early signs of positive progress are being seen. For instance, new training is helping investigators understand victims and their response to trauma. Under Soteria, investigators also assess the wider context of a crime, including intelligence about the RASSO suspect and digital evidence.
“But improvements are required to ensure Operation Soteria is implemented effectively. For example, some leaders didn’t fully understand Soteria or the benefits it can offer. We found resource gaps in digital forensics, analysis, victim support and investigation teams. In most forces we inspected, half of their rape investigation team roles are held by trainees.
“We recognise that forces are trying to make things better while dealing with high demand and limited resources. This is alongside the short-term funding for the Soteria Joint Unit and cases often taking too long to reach trial.
“However, even with all these challenges, Soteria presents a major opportunity for the criminal justice system. We must keep up the momentum towards change and give victims the service they deserve.”
Background
Operation Soteria is a police and Crown Prosecution Service programme in England and Wales to respond to rape and other serious sexual offences (RASSO). Since 2021, 19 ‘early adopter’ forces have been putting Soteria in place via the National Operating Model; inspectors looked at nine.
Separately, a report by the Victims’ Commissioner found considerable victim dissatisfaction with criminal justice agencies, like the police and CPS, and a lack of confidence in the criminal justice system overall.
