[C]umbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner has today praised victims who courageously come forward and report rape.
The comments follow HMICFRS publishing the annual Rape Monitoring Group Report for 2016/17. The figures show that there has been a 11% increase in all rape cases when compared to the previous year 2015/16. The highest percentage increase is in rape of a male over 16 years with the context being an increase in 6 reported cases compared to 4 the previous year. In total 61 cases were referred by the Police to CPS with just under half moving forward to charge. 29 cases resulted in a conviction with 9 unsuccessful.
Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall said: “I praise the brave victims that have come forward and report that they have been a victim of rape. Whilst we are seeing an increase in the crime figures around rape, there is a positive sign that victims are more confident to come forward.
“My message is – whilst it may not be easy, if you have been a victim of rape, please come forward and report it to the police, we now have the support services within the county (The Bridgeway) to help you through the processes and to cope and recover from your experience.”
Detective Superintendent Vicki Ellis, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “The data shows that that in Cumbria we have seen a rise in the number of rape incidents reported. This is in line with other forces throughout the country, as we continue to receive reports of non-recent incidents.
“The rise shows an increase in confidence and willingness of victims to come forward and report such offences, in the knowledge they will be listened to and investigations will be carried out.
“Rape investigations are complex and can often be lengthy, especially historic cases when there is a lack of forensic evidence. I can assure the public that any incident of rape, whether recent or non-recent, is thoroughly investigated so that offenders can be brought to justice.”
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