The States of Jersey Police force is implementing an “ambitious programme” to transform the way that rape investigations and prosecutions are handled and progressed – with a focus on investigating the suspect rather than the victim.
Operation Soteria was rolled out across the UK in 2021 to address the national concern regarding rape and serious sexual assault offences, and the increasing violence against women and girls.
This week, Jersey hosted key training sessions for rape and serious sexual assault offences investigators as part of this operation.
Detective Superintendent Alison Fossey from the States of Jersey Police said: “Tackling violence against women and girls is one of our key areas to focus on.
“To that end we are implementing Operation Soteria which is an ambitious programme of work to transform the way that rape investigations and prosecutions are handled and progressed, with a focus on investigating the suspect rather than the victim.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Melissa Laremore, NPCC Strategic Lead, praised the States of Jersey Police for demonstrating their commitment to “transformational change” after the force’s senior leadership team took part in a visit.
She said: “It was encouraging to see the Chief Officer, Robin Smith’s, support for Operation Soteria, and their understanding of the comprehensive commitment needed across the force to achieve truly transformative change to improve outcomes for victims and support investigators undertaking these often-complex investigations.”
States of Jersey Police Regional Practice Advisor from the NPCC, Nicky Arrowsmith added:
“It was a privilege to meet with over 40 colleagues from the States of Jersey Police, who are committed to adopting Operation Soteria, the national programme to assist and guide policing as it develops and improves its investigations of rape and serious sexual assault.
“We focused on our key principles around a ‘victim centred, suspect focused and context led’ approach.
“It was evident from working with States of Jersey Police colleagues that they see Operation Soteria as an opportunity for better outcomes for all victims of rape and serious sexual assault.”