Wendy says Rape Conviction Figures ‘Deeply Concerning’

The number of people convicted of rape in Scotland has dropped to a 25-year low, according to new statistics. 

Figures obtained by Rape Crisis Scotland from the Scottish government show that just 25 of the 821 rapes reported in 2008/09 were proven.The charity said this was the lowest number since 1984.

Wendy Alexander responded to the news that convictions for rape had fallen to a 25 year low by calling for the new Sexual Offences Act to be implemented as soon as possible.

Wendy said:

“These figures are deeply concerning and it’s vital that the implementation of the new Sexual Offences Act happens as soon as possible. And it’s important that people who have been sexually assaulted feel that when they come forward their cases will be treated sensitively and professionally. The figures must be a wake up call for the Scottish Government to seriously step up the fight against violent crime against women. We need to radically think about how we approach female victims, how they are treated in court and how we call to justice the perpetrators of such a vile offence. We must continue to be vigilant on the laws around sexual offences and continue to improve them so victims are better protected and the guilty are brought to justice.”