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Less than 2% of rape cases in Suffolk led to charges last year

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Only 17 out of 885 rape offences recorded by Suffolk Constabulary resulted in charges or court summons in the year to March 2024, new figures reveal.

The big picture: This 1.9% charge rate for rape cases is significantly lower than the force's overall 9.1% charge rate across all offences. It also falls below the national average of 2.6% for rape cases.

Why it matters: The low charge rate raises concerns about justice for rape survivors and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in handling these cases.

By the numbers:

  • 885 rape offences recorded in Suffolk

  • 17 resulted in charges or court summons (1.9%)

  • 24.1% of cases were still under investigation as of March

  • 38.5% were closed due to evidential difficulties where the victim did not support further action

What they're saying: Ciara Bergman, chief executive of Rape Crisis, said:

"Those survivors who take the brave steps to report rape and sexual assault do so with the expectation that there will be accountability for the perpetrator. That just 2.6% of adult rape investigations result in a charge or summons is unacceptable. With so many survivors being denied their opportunity to seek criminal justice, it's clear that the system isn't working. But we need more than a level of commitment; we need to see drastic improvements."

A government spokesperson responded:

"In far too many cases, rape victims aren't getting the justice they deserve. It is important that police and prosecutors work together in a timely way to build the strongest possible case. We have committed to fast-tracking rape cases and are carefully considering the best way to do this. We are working with the judiciary and will announce next steps in due course."

Zoom out: Rape cases took an average of 423 days to investigate nationally, significantly longer than other offences:

  • 55 days for violence against the person

  • 28 days for theft offences

The bottom line: While charging rates for rape cases have increased nationally, experts stress the need for both improved prosecution rates and better access to specialist support services for survivors.

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Three more arrests in Billy McNicholl murder investigation

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Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team has made three new arrests following the murder of Billy McNicholl, bringing the total number of arrests to five.

Why it matters: The investigation into the death of 63-year-old William "Billy" McNicholl, who was found dead in a Hawthorn Drive property on 1 January, continues as police seek justice for the victim and his friends and family.

A Home Office post-mortem indicated McNicholl died from head injuries and a single stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

The details: Three people were arrested on Tuesday 1 April – a 17-year-old boy, an 18-year-old man and a 41-year-old man – on suspicion of assisting an offender and being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs.

All three have been questioned at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre and subsequently bailed to return to police on 1 July.

What they're saying: Detective Inspector Mark Hughes said: "A large number of officers have been involved in the investigation and many people, including residents in the Hawthorn Drive area and surrounding streets, have either contacted us or have been spoken to by our officers. However, if anyone has any information that they are yet to share with police, I would ask them to do so, to help us find out what happened to Billy."

He added: "Our enquiry into his death and the work to bring those responsible to justice continues."

The bigger picture: On 22 January, a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been bailed with conditions and is due to return to police on Tuesday, 22 April.

A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, has been told she will face no further action.

What's next: Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given anonymously that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Phil Breckon, Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, said: "Our charity is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given exclusively to us that leads to the arrest, charge and conviction of anybody responsible for Billy's murder."

He added: "If you have information, however small, please speak up and tell Crimestoppers 100% anonymously. If you prefer not to talk to the police, you can tell us what you know, and we'll pass it on for you."

The reward will expire on 30 April 2025.

The bottom line: Police continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact them quoting reference 37/162/25, either via the Major Incident Public Reporting Portal, by calling 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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