Sex Offences

Question 1

What is our overall aim when dealing with the victim of a sexual abuse?

Answer 1

• Ensure their safety and immediate health needs are met
• Preserve crime scenes and other relevant physical evidence
• Apprehend, hold accountable and prosecute the offender where the evidence supports such action
• Help the victim to be able to emotionally and psychologically cope with the trauma arising from the crime and the resulting investigation and trials.

Question 2

What are the guidelines when dealing with the victim of a sexual offence?

Answer 2

CALMTEA

Question 3

What are the key principles when dealing with a victim of sexual assault?

Answer 3

• The victims wellbeing and safety is paramount
• Police do not worknkm isolation with adult victims as they are referred to a specialist support agency and children to CYF
• Sexual abuse and child abuse are serious criminal acts and offenders should be held accountable
• Good communication and consultation with the victim, partner agencies, ASA and child abuse investigations enhances a victims cooperation
• Police will protect the privacy of victims as far as possible during ASA and child abuse investigations