FOI 587-24 Sexual Assaults & Rapes Reported

Enquiry Reference:  587 - 24                                                                        

 

I write in connection with regards to your Freedom of Information request. Below is your request and our response.

 

What is the number of incidents of sexual assaults and rapes (as defined by Sec 1, 2 and 3 of the Sexual Offences Act, 2003) are reported to the Constabulary (including recent and historic rape) between Jan 2019 – Dec 2023?

 

We have looked at the content of your question and must advise you that we consider the Freedom of information Act 2000 Exemption 21 (Information Accessible by other means) is engaged in relation to this request this is a class based and absolute exemption, requiring no prejudice or public interest to be considered.

If you visit the Police recorded crime and outcomes open data tables - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

All the information Cleveland police publish is available.

 

Among the cases noted in the above, what is the incidence of early evidence kit utilization and subsequent DNA collection from the victim

1. a) No information held; we do not hold/record this is a case by case decision made within the Forensic time scales and with the consent of the victim.

 

In instances where DNA was gathered utilizing the early evidence kit, could you specify the types of DNA collected, for example semen samples, vaginal fluid, or other relevant biological materials?

1. a) Early evidence kits are used to obtain victims urine and any potential DNA/Semen.

 

Could you provide a comprehensive outline of the specific procedures employed for the collection of each type of DNA mentioned previously, within the context of the aforementioned DNA samples?

1. a) Early evidence kits are conducted by SOLO/Officers with consent of the victim for non-intimate samples. Sexual Assault Response Coordinator process is carried out by Medical trained nurse in line with ISO accreditation.

 

What are the established standard operating procedures unique to your constabulary that govern the collection of DNA from sexual assault and rape victims when using the early evidence kit and forensic medical examinations, that adhere to FSR protocols and best practices in evidence collection?

1. a) Recommendations for the Collection of Forensic Specimens from Complainants and Suspects - FFLM

 

Could you provide the titles of the personnel involved in the process of DNA collection from the victim, including any specialized staff or qualified professionals?

1. a) Early evidence kits are conducted by SOLO/Officers with consent of the victim for non-intimate samples. SARC process is carried out by Medical trained nurse in line with ISO accreditation.

Further information may be available on the below link:

Teeside SARC – SARC (sarcteesside.co.uk)

 

Regarding the DNA samples collected from victims, I would like to inquire about the utilization of these samples (from early evidence kits) in court proceedings. Could you provide insight into the proportion of these samples that were introduced as evidence in court?

1. a) No information held, we do not hold/record this.

 

What were the reasons or factors underlying for the exclusion of the DNA evidence samples in court?

1. a) Any DNA sample obtained from a victim is obtained with consent. Any victim elimination DNA obtained is again reviewed by a manager in central submissions. If not used it will be destroyed. Any Samples /Forensic matches required for court purposes will be at the direction CPS or the defence.

 

The Cleveland Police response to your request is unique and it should be noted that Police Forces do not use generic systems or identical procedures to capture and record data therefore responses from Cleveland Police should not be used as a comparison with any other force response you receive.

 

If you are not satisfied with this response or any actions taken in dealing with your request, you have the right to request an independent internal review of your case under our review procedure. The Freedom of Information Code of Practice (see below link) states that a request for internal review should be made within 20 working days of the date on this response or 40 working days if extenuating circumstances to account for the delay can be evidenced. Public authorities are not obliged to accept internal reviews after this date.

 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/freedom-of-information-code-of-practice

 

 

Yours sincerely

 

Information Rights Decision Maker