Rape trial change to help victims

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7116336.stm

Juries in rape trials are to be given information about the way an attack
can affect a victim's behaviour - in an attempt to increase conviction
rates.
Only 5.7% of reported rapes in England and Wales currently end in
conviction.

One common problem is a victim is doubted when a jury cannot understand why
she did not attempt to escape the attack or took some time to report it.

The move to explain such reactions is among measures expected to be
announced later by Solicitor General Vera Baird.

Another measure, which has already been approved, will enable prosecutors to
use a victim's videotaped police statement or interview as their main
evidence at the trial.

It means victims will spend less time in court having to relive their
ordeal.

It is thought that about 80% of rapes are never reported, and about a third
of those reported are not recorded by the police.

Cameron's call

And in eight out of 10 rape cases, victim and suspect are known to each
other.

Two weeks ago Conservative leader David Cameron called for tougher sentences
for rapists, saying too many men "think they can get away with it".

Rape victims are often not believed because they did not respond to an
attack in the way juries expected.

For example, victims may not try to escape or immediately report what has
happened and some stay with partners who have raped them because the are
scared to leave.

This prompted the plans to inform jury members of psychological reactions to
forms of abuse.

A group of judges, doctors and academics will determine over the next few
months exactly what information should be given in rape trials and how it
can be delivered.

However, the government ruled out using expert witnesses.

IOW a licence for yet more liars


--
"Women worry about the future until they get married.
Men don't worry about the future until they get married.


.

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