Rape Investigators Overburdened with Football Matches and Festivals Work
A report reveals that rape investigators are diverted to police football matches and festivals, causing trial delays of up to four years. Half of the investigators are unqualified, and victims are opting out of prosecutions. Although the police are committed to addressing the issue, significant improvements are needed.
According to a report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services, rape investigators are being diverted to police football matches and festivals, leading to significant trial delays of up to four years.
This has caused many victims to withdraw from prosecuting their attackers.
The report also found that half of the investigators are not fully qualified and are still in training.
Despite police chiefs' commitment to addressing rape with the same seriousness as terrorism, the report found substantial delays, lack of resources, and insufficient knowledge among officers.
Under Operation Soteria, only 19 forces have adopted the scheme so far, with all forces in England and Wales expected to follow by the end of the year.
The report calls for improvements in resources, training, and investigation processes.
This has caused many victims to withdraw from prosecuting their attackers.
The report also found that half of the investigators are not fully qualified and are still in training.
Despite police chiefs' commitment to addressing rape with the same seriousness as terrorism, the report found substantial delays, lack of resources, and insufficient knowledge among officers.
Under Operation Soteria, only 19 forces have adopted the scheme so far, with all forces in England and Wales expected to follow by the end of the year.
The report calls for improvements in resources, training, and investigation processes.
