NEWS Pg. 5
A weekly look at the most up-to-date information this month
15/06/07 - 320 rapists cautioned rather than charged
320 rapists have been given a caution by police in the last five years, rather than being charged, a BBC News Investigation has found.
The findings, obtained under the Freedom of Information act and released on Monday, appear to show a “soft touch” being taken by police on offenders.
A spokesperson from the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) said:
“Cautions are issued only after careful consideration has been given to the full circumstances.
“There would need to be evidence and a clear admission of guilt, whilst age, welfare, mental well being and the views of the victim would be taken into account.”
A caution can only be given when the accused admits that they are guilty, yet prevents any further criminal action being taken.
Spokesperson for the charity, Women Against Rape, Ruth Hall said:
“It takes an enormous effort for [women] to actually come forward and try to bring the man to justice, so having the criminal justice system say, ‘it doesn’t matter to us’ is ruinous. It’s absolutely devastating.”
The investigation also found that over 8000 more general sex offenders were also cautioned in the last five years.
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