Crime reduction 

Specially Trained Officers

Thames Valley Police offers a dedicated team who deal with victims of sexual assault. These are known as Specially Trained Officers.

Specially Trained Officers deal with adult victims – age 18 and over. If the victim is younger, this will be dealt with by the Child Abuse Investigation Unit. A Specially Trained Officer (STO) is an officer who has received specialist training in order to respond to the needs of victims of serious sexual assault.

The role of the STO

The STO will work closely with the victim, is involved in the early stages of an investigation, and remains a single contact point for them through the criminal justice process. The STO is a vital link between the investigating officer, the victim and other agencies.

The role of the STO is of vital importance as the gathering of evidence in the first few hours is crucial.

The role will facilitate the ‘care’ of victims from initial report, through medical examination, interview and subsequent investigation. They will then identify and engage the most appropriate methods of victim support.

Support is essential for the long-term wellbeing of the victim as well as ensuring an effective investigation and subsequent prosecution of such offences.

Thames Valley Police has 14 Specially Trained Officers. They are allocated to Basic Command Units and work according to an on-call rota across the Force area for out-of-hours requirements.

The role of the STO includes:

• Deploy to allegations of serious sexual assault or consult with the initial response officer and establish information in relation to the complaint.
• Make contact with the victim and decide on an appropriate course of action, including an explanation of the criminal justice process.
• Discuss and resolve any initial issues or concerns that the victim may have.
• Facilitate the use of the Early Evidence Kit and any other first stage forensic retrieval.
• Consult with the investigating officer and develop an investigation plan, highlighting any potential lines of inquiry.
• Record all relevant information in the STO log.
• Arrange and brief the Force medical examiner (doctor) for a full forensic medical examination.
• Accompany the victim to the medical suite/hospital and remain present while the medical is conducted.
• Collect relevant samples, evidence and information.
• Undertake the full interview of the victim, written statement/visually recorded interview.
• Maintain victim contact throughout the investigation and keep them updated with any changes or developments, after consultation with investigating officers.
• Discuss special measures for court, linking victim into witness care.
• Accompany the victim to a pre-trial court familiarisation visit.
• Accompany the victim during any court appearances and keep them notified on the case progress.
• Signpost and make referrals to any external agencies, including counselling, sexual health and crisis planning.
• Assist with Criminal Injuries Compensation Claims.