Rape suspects face tougher investigation

RAPE suspects will be pursued by police even if victims withdraw their support, as part of an overhaul of the justice system.

- Steph Spyro

From today, all forces across the country will begin carrying out a fresh approach to rape and other serious sexual offences. It is part of an operation called Soteria.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said the change of focus was "vital".

She said: "As a society, too often we have failed the victims of sexual violence. I have been clear that we must transform the way these investigations are handled, to make sure that all victims have the best support possible throughout the entire process.

"This is a vital step in delivering on that promise.

"It will help ensure investigations focus on the suspect, and never on seeking to undermine the account of the victim, as well as placing the utmost importance on their rights and needs." Under the plans developed alongside academics, 2,000 extra police investigators will be specially trained in handling rape and sexual offences by April.

It will also be compulsory for new recruits to undertake rape and sexual offences training, which will also be rolled out to all first responders.

More victims will have the option to hear their attacker being sentenced away from a courtroom, avoiding seeing the offender face-to-face.