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Rape investigation team provides improved service for victims

Northumbria Police

30 December 2009


A SPECIALIST rape investigation team set up by Northumbria Police has dealt with 70 crimes in its first three months.
The team was set up in October to provide an improved service for victims and bring more offenders to justice. It is made up of four groups of five officers who work closely with the CPS and partner agencies to achieve prompt successful prosecutions.
The creation of the rape investigation team has also led to improved working between police and partner agencies, including the CPS and counselling and support agencies. This in turn means a better service for victims.
Detective Inspector Tim Miley from the team said: "People should be reassured that stranger rape remains a very rare occurrence - the vast majority of the incidents we're investigating relate to people who are known to each other, either in a domestic situation or between people who've met socialising.
"Whatever the circumstances, we'd encourage victims to report rape in confidence, safe in the knowledge the investigation will be investigated rigorously."
Detective Superintendent Steve Wade, who leads the rape investigation team, said: "Our aim was to give more victims the confidence to come forward and report they have been raped in the knowledge that their case will be fully investigated by a dedicated team of detectives. Since the team started I feel we've done that.
"We're working closely with specialist prosecutors from the CPS to ensure the strongest possible case is built against defendants and that appropriate legal advice is provided at every stage of the investigation.
"This combined approach will enhance the way we tackle rape crime ensuring the expertise is always available to pursue a successful conviction.”
The work of the team complements a regionwide police campaign to increase awareness of rape and promote personal safety over the festive season.
Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland forces have teamed up to promote "Short word - Long sentence" - a new website which contains information on reporting rape to police, the role of sexual assault referral centres and counselling and support services available.
One of the main aims of the campaign is to encourage people to think about their own safety across the party season.
Det Supt Wade added: "We want to get across a clear message that if someone does not consent to sex then it is rape. Excessive drinking can cause people to think and behave differently and we want people to consider how much they are drinking before they put themselves at risk."
The website is www.shortwordlongsentence.com and can also be accessed through the Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland Police websites.