Press Release … Press Release … Press Release …
Press Release
Home Office publish Understanding Attrition in Reported Rape Cases
New
research shows that the conviction rate in rape continues to fall and that the
Criminal Justice System continues to cause further harm to those who have
already been subjected to rape.
Women
show their faith in the justice system when they report rape, in ever
increasing numbers. The system responds
by treating them as liars and subjecting them to humiliation and doubt, from
the beginning of the process.
This
study shows that only 14% of cases reach the trial process with the police
still “no criming” a significant proportion of reported rapes.
This system is helping to perpetuate rape,
by allowing rapists to get off free – to rape again. CER calls upon the Government to act urgently
in response to this study.
Our Demands:
1.
The Police and CPS must treat
rape complainants with respect. Those who report rape deserve our thanks. They
should be supported throughout the process.
2.
The police and CPS must stop
focussing on reasons to disbelieve or discredit complainants and start
collecting evidence as soon as a report is made. 94% of women are not lying.
3.
The public, publicly employed
lawyers, police officers and members of the judiciary all need to be educated
on the truth about rape. CER calls upon the Government to pledge significant
funding to begin this process.
Contact: Sandra McNeill 0113 2492740
Notes:
1. The Campaign to End Rape (CER) is a
national organisation which exists to challenge the crime of rape and to strive
for improvements in the Criminal Justice System responses to rape. CER draws its membership from a wide range
of women’s groups, including Rape Crisis Centres and from individuals, many of
whom are survivors of rape.
2. Published today: Kelly, L., Lovett, J.
and Regan, L. (forthcoming) Understanding
Attrition in Reported Rape Cases, Home Office Research Study, London
c/o Pankhurst
Centre,