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WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS BY DEPUTY R.G. LE HÉRISSIER OF ST. SAVIOUR
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 6th JULY 2010
Question
"With reference to his answer to my written question on 22nd June 2010, would the Minister advise whether he is satisfied with the recent rates of convictions for rape offences and, if not, what steps, if any, does he intend to take to increase that rate?"
Answer
Rape is a particularly nasty and repugnant offence and in an ideal world I would like to see all those who have committed rape convicted.
The main responsibilities of the States of Jersey Police are to investigate the allegation and to produce a report and supporting evidence for the consideration of the Law Officers' Department who will then decide whether a prosecution should commence and will conduct any prosecution.
As rape is a common law offence in Jersey any trial will be before a jury who will determine guilt or innocence.
It follows from the above that successful prosecutions are dependant upon a number of factors. However, I am very pleased with the progress which has been made in recent years in relation to the staffing and efficiency of the Public Protection Unit which works in this area. Their excellent work will have significantly contributed to the conviction rate for rape cases in Jersey (approximately 22.45% over the last 5 years) which is relatively high when compared with the UK and I am confident that the States of Jersey Police deal with all allegations of rape in an appropriate and professional manner.