Vicitms Rights Act

Question 1

What makes an offence a S29 Victims Rights Act offence?

Answer 1

Sexual violation or serious assault
resulting in serious injury, death or person being incapable
Led to the victim having ongoing fears on reasonable grounds for the physical safety or security of:
- themself
- One or more members of their immediate family

Question 2

Post prelim interview considerations? (5)

Answer 2

• public safety and likelihood of similar offending
• need to be secure and preserve evidence
• securing crime scene
• identification and apprehension of suspect

Question 3

List 5 Police responsibilities to victims and their rights:

Answer 3

• all obligations under victims rights act 2002 must be met and all contact recorded
• victims must be given info about the progress of their case within 21 days
• must be kept updated and informed of outcome of investigation, incl no lines of enquiry or reason for charges not being filed
• as soon as offender arrested, informed of rights to register for VNR
• informed of outcome of case and case closure. Ensure any victim property is returned promptly

Question 4

Victims of sexual offences, action to provide a safe environment in which they may regain control of their lives: CALMTEA

Answer 4

• CONDUCT your dealings in a sensitive and concerned manner
• ACCEPT they are telling the truth until/unless there is evidence to prove contrary
• LISTEN to what they tell you, giving them a opportunity to tell their account in their words
• establish if the need MEDICAL ATTENTION
• TREAT them courteously
• EXPLAIN the process you are following and why you need to follow that process and ask certain questions
• ADVISE them if local counseling services available