Police Piloting New Service To Report Sexual Assault Online
Written by HFM News on 7th December 2021
Leicestershire Police are hoping more victims of sexual assaults will come forward after launching a new online reporting service.
The force is one of four in the UK piloting the service to enable people to report sexual assault via its website – with the option to do it anonymously.
Detective Chief Inspector Lucy Batchelor said: “We know from research and experience that there are many reasons why survivors and witnesses don’t come forward and report sexual offences to the police and we want to change that, giving more options to report offences, including the option to report anonymously.
“We understand people are apprehensive about giving personal details and we have been working to look at how we can invite greater reporting, which can help us prevent further crimes and bring offenders to justice.
“Every report provides us with valuable information. And if people aren’t comfortable with making that report, then we want them to know how they can get the support and help they need.”
The idea has been developed by the National Police Chief’s Council, working with more than 40 organisations, including Rape Crisis, End Violence Against Women and the Survivors Trust.
If reported anonymously, the police will only contact that person if there is believed to be an immediate threat to their life.
The online Rape and Sexual Assault reporting service can be found at Report rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | Leicestershire Police (leics.police.uk)
