His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) reported in a report that included a number of recommendations for UK forces, that in half of the forces it examined, officers were “routinely diverted” away from major sexual offenses and rape (Rasso).
Furthermore, “half of Rasso teams are personnel who aren’t fully qualified and are still training” in almost every unit.
The watchdog’s conclusions are a component of Operation Soteria, a 2021 initiative funded by the Home Office that aims to modernize and enhance the way police in England and Wales investigate sexual offenses.
Thus far, the watchdog has come to the conclusion that “major changes” are necessary before the program can be successful on a national level at the nine forces that have adopted measures since the start of Operation Soteria.
Based on the most recent government data available, the percentage of suspects charged with rape who are brought to court is 2.6%, which is still among the lowest rates ever recorded.
