Crime reduction 

Sexual assault

Thames Valley Police is totally committed to delivering a professional, responsive and caring service to victims of rape and sexual assault.

It is the police’s responsibility to investigate crimes and gather evidence that may be used in court. Once gathered, the police hand the evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service which makes the decision as to whether to charge and prepare the case for court.

• A sexual assault is forcing a sexual act upon a person without consent.
• A sexual act can be any act deemed as sexual by the person who experiences it.
• Consent means having the freedom and capacity to make a decision to take part in any act, and having a true belief that consent has been given.

While it is acknowledged that all sexual offences are serious, there are factors which will be considered to assess which department is best placed to deal with the victim.

It is recognised that certain acts, due to their nature, are more serious than others – these are categorised as ‘serious sexual assaults’.

Victims of ‘serious sexual assault’ will have a dedicated specialist department allocated to the victim depending on the victim’s age as follows:

• Under 18 – Child Abuse Investigation Unit.
• Age 18 and over – Specially Trained Officers.

How to report a sexual assault

• In an emergency, call 999. It is an emergency when: a crime is in progress, there is a danger to life or property, or you feel in danger or threatened.
• Call 0845 8 505 505, the 24-hour Thames Valley Police non-emergency number.
• If you don’t want to speak to police or give your name, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.