The Isle of Man Constabulary annual report has revealed that 42% of reported rape allegations were finalised as undetected.
The majority of these 15 cases could not be progressed due to a lack of evidence or conflicting accounts.
The detection rate for rape offences during the year was 19%, which was seven in total.
Notably, 14 of the rapes reported could not be proceeded with as they were unsupported/did not wish to be proceeded with by the person alleging the rape.
However, the force has seen an increase from 34% to 62% of sexual offences (other than rape) being finalised this year with a “positive outcome”.
Sexual Offences
In March, the Sexual Offences and Obscene Publications Act 2021 came into effect and the constabulary were operationally ready for the go live date.
Further working group meetings with partners are being undertaken for three months post the go live date to manage the ongoing work that is required to ensure successful implementation of the Act.
The final annual report by the Chief Constable Russ Foster says that the “transition between the new legislation and the old will be slow and steady”.
He says that early indications so far are “extremely positive” with the Protecting Vulnerable People – Investigations (PVPI) team being able to provide training and guidance across the police force.
The new legislation provides PVPI and constabulary with numerous additional offences enabling investigations to commence to tackle criminality and protect vulnerable people.
The full report can be read here.
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