This guide is maintained as a current resource for September 2026 and covers only the laws of England and Wales. Information is for general guidance, not legal advice. Consult a qualified solicitor for advice specific to your situation.
Detailed guide explaining how the police in England and Wales deal with sexual offence allegations, including reporting procedures, investigation steps, victim rights, evidence gathering, interactions with the Crown Prosecution Service, and possible outcomes. Provides clear information for the public and solicitors.
What Is a Sexual Offence?
In England and Wales, a “sexual offence” covers a wide range of criminal acts involving non‑consensual sexual activity or behaviour of a sexual nature. This includes rape, sexual assault, sexual activity with a minor, online offending and indecent images, among others. Any sexual contact without consent is a criminal offence and can be reported to the police.
When an allegation of a sexual offence is made, the police are responsible for investigating what happened, gathering evidence, safeguarding those involved, and working with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to decide whether to charge a suspect.
1. Reporting an Allegation to the Police
Ways to Report
- Emergency (999): If the incident is ongoing or someone is in immediate danger.
- Non‑emergency (101): For reporting after the event.
- In person: By attending a local police station.
- On behalf of someone else: You can report for someone else if you have their consent, or as a witness.
When a report is made, a crime reference number is assigned. This helps both you and the police to identify the case in future contact.
Initial Safety and Support
Police will first focus on ensuring the safety of the alleged victim and anyone else at risk. They will check whether urgent medical or welfare support is needed and discuss safeguarding measures.
2. Police Assessment and Investigation
Once a report has been made, the police open an investigation. Many forces will allocate it to a specialist unit, especially for serious offences such as rape or assault by penetration. These units are often called Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) teams or similar specialist teams.
Statement and Interview
- You may be asked to provide an initial account followed by a formal statement.
- Statements can be written, but for serious cases a video recorded interview is common.
- You can request a police officer of a specific gender for your interview and may ask to have a support person present.
- Interpreters and communication aids must be provided if needed as part of your rights under the Victims' Code.
Evidence Gathering
The police will follow lines of enquiry they believe are reasonable and relevant to the case. This can include:
- Physical evidence: Clothing or items from the incident.
- Forensic evidence: Swabs, DNA, or bodily fluid samples, sometimes collected at a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).
- Digital evidence: Phones, computers, online accounts or other electronic material.
- Witness statements from others who may have information.
Forensic evidence can be taken via early evidence kits or through a forensic medical examination at a specialist centre, with consent.
Specialised Police Support
Survivors can be assigned a Specially Trained Officer (STO) or a sexual offences investigator who provides information on the process, updates and help navigating interactions with police and other services.
3. Interactions with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
The police investigation does not conclude with the police alone. Once sufficient evidence is gathered, the case file is reviewed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS):
- The CPS decides whether to charge a suspect with an offence.
- The decision is based on evidence strength and whether it is in the public interest to prosecute.
- If the CPS decides not to charge, the police may be asked to gather more evidence.
- If the CPS authorises charges, criminal proceedings begin and the suspect becomes a defendant.
4. Rights of Victims During the Police Process
When the police and CPS handle a sexual offence allegation, victims have specific statutory rights under the Victims' Code, including:
- Rights to information about the process and investigation progress.
- Right to request a statement recording in an understandable form.
- Right to support services and tailored communication.
- Automatic lifelong anonymity in the media; no publication of identifying information without consent.
Victims also can get information about compensation schemes available through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority if eligible.
5. Timeframes and Delays
There is no fixed deadline for reporting a sexual offence or for how long investigations may take. Cases can be reported months or years after an incident.
Investigations vary in length. Many take 12–24 months before a charging decision is made, while more complex cases may take longer. Recent data indicates that some sexual offence investigations have taken several years to conclude, raising concerns about systemic delays and their impact on survivors.
6. Possible Outcomes of a Police Investigation
After the investigation and CPS review, possible outcomes include:
- No further action (NFA): Police or CPS decide not to proceed.
- Charge and court proceedings: Defendant is charged and the case moves to trial.
- Case dropped before trial: Even if charged, the case can be discontinued for evidential or public interest reasons.
If charged, the defendant may plead guilty or not guilty. A not guilty plea leads to a trial where a judge or jury determines the verdict.
Conclusion
When a sexual offence allegation is reported in England and Wales, the police follow a structured and regulated investigative process focused on gathering evidence, safeguarding individuals involved and working with the Crown Prosecution Service to decide whether to pursue criminal charges. The process is supported by statutory rights for victims, specialist police units, and opportunities for support and guidance throughout. While complexity and duration vary widely from case to case, the principles of evidence‑gathering, fairness, and victim support guide the approach.
