Nearly half of the people who reported being raped to Guernsey Police last year have chosen not to press charges.
51 incidents of rape were reported to Bailiwick Law Enforcement in 2019 but, in 21 cases, victims have decided not to take the legal proceedings any further.
"Once investigated, cases are reviewed by the Law Officers before a final decision is taken as to whether the case can continue to prosecution," a spokesperson for BLE said. "In 21 cases, despite police investigation, the victim did not support prosecution action. In these circumstances, the case is reviewed and appropriate safeguarding is put in place where necessary."
Ten of the reported crimes were historical, while the other 41 are alleged to have taken place in 2019.
Pictured: 51 incidents of rape were reported to Guernsey Police in 2019.
"With regard to the historical crimes, these present a unique set of evidential challenges for police," the spokesperson continued. "Due to the historical nature of the crime, there is often a lack of forensic evidence."
Of the reported crimes, 17 remain under active investigation.
"Guernsey Police makes significant training investments in this complex and complicated area of crime," the BLE spokesperson continued. "Police officers within the Public Protection Unit are highly qualified and capable to deal with these serious offences - whether recent or historical.
"Guernsey Police takes these offences seriously. Our aim is for victims to feel supported and assured that our skilled investigators will do everything they can to bring the perpetrators to justice."
Pictured: 17 of the reported cases are still under investigation.
A new victim suite has recently been opened, in an attempt to help victims feel as comfortable as possible while giving evidence for traumatic crimes.
"Guernsey Police want to reassure the public that these crimes are fully investigated and are taken seriously," the spokesperson added. "Victims should feel confident in coming forward, and feel assured that officers will explore all avenues in the pursuit of justice."
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