Rape investigations carried out by South Wales Police

Freedom of information request reference no: 264/25

REQUEST

1. In 2024 how many rape investigations were carried out by South Wales Police.
2. Of the total number of rape investigations carried out by SWP in 2024, how many resulted in no further action at the point of the evidence being reviewed by the reviewing/supervising officer.
3. Of the total number of rape allegations investigated by SWP in 2024, in which the outcome was to take no further action, how many of those decisions were appealed by way of the victim asking for the case to be reviewed. (VRR process)
4. In relation to rape allegations made to SWP in 2024, where the decision was made to take no further action and where a victim asked for the case to be reviewed, how many resulted in a change of outcome i.e the case was progressed to the CPS for their consideration.

Clarification: I'm happy for you to provide the number of crimes recorded as rape. 

RESPONSE

We consulted with our Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit who have provided the following information regarding your request.

Question 1

There were 1,264 rape offences recorded in 2024.

Question 2

Please note, the table shows the no further action outcomes finalised in 2024. This data also includes rape investigations that were pre-2024 but finalised in 2024.

Question 3

6 of the no further action cases were appealed.

Question 4

None, however, 3 are still in the review stage.

Please note, every report of a rape or other sexual offence, is taken at face value and recorded on the force recording crime system (NICHE RMS) irrespective of the source of the report. This includes reports made by third parties, through partnership working or from other agencies. In addition, some victims do not support police action in terms of engagement in the judicial process, however a referral will still be made to partner agencies to ensure that a victim receives support.

Staff who deal with cases of this nature undertake a comprehensive training and accreditation process to ensure a professional investigation and the best outcome for victims.

South Wales Police continues to prioritise its response to allegations of sexual offences and actively encourages victims to have confidence in reporting these crimes. Our focus, together with our partner agencies is firmly on victim’s needs and improving outcomes whilst increasing the number of offenders brought to justice. South Wales Police have dedicated rape investigation teams, consisting of 114 staff through the force. South Wales Police were a pathfinder force for Operation Soteria and we remain committed to embedding the national operating model to improve our service to victims and judicial outcomes for suspects.