Only 17 out of 885 rape offences recorded by Suffolk Constabulary resulted in charges or court summons in the year to March 2024, new figures reveal.
The big picture: This 1.9% charge rate for rape cases is significantly lower than the force's overall 9.1% charge rate across all offences. It also falls below the national average of 2.6% for rape cases.
Why it matters: The low charge rate raises concerns about justice for rape survivors and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in handling these cases.
By the numbers:
885 rape offences recorded in Suffolk
17 resulted in charges or court summons (1.9%)
24.1% of cases were still under investigation as of March
38.5% were closed due to evidential difficulties where the victim did not support further action
What they're saying: Ciara Bergman, chief executive of Rape Crisis, said:
"Those survivors who take the brave steps to report rape and sexual assault do so with the expectation that there will be accountability for the perpetrator. That just 2.6% of adult rape investigations result in a charge or summons is unacceptable. With so many survivors being denied their opportunity to seek criminal justice, it's clear that the system isn't working. But we need more than a level of commitment; we need to see drastic improvements."
A government spokesperson responded:
"In far too many cases, rape victims aren't getting the justice they deserve. It is important that police and prosecutors work together in a timely way to build the strongest possible case. We have committed to fast-tracking rape cases and are carefully considering the best way to do this. We are working with the judiciary and will announce next steps in due course."
Zoom out: Rape cases took an average of 423 days to investigate nationally, significantly longer than other offences:
55 days for violence against the person
28 days for theft offences
The bottom line: While charging rates for rape cases have increased nationally, experts stress the need for both improved prosecution rates and better access to specialist support services for survivors.
