By Lucy Caulkett-
A disturbing report has revealed grave concerns over the handling of teen sexual abuse cases by the Crown Prosecution Service(CPS).
The report, conducted by academics at Warwick University, sheds light on a culture of trivialization, victim-blaming, and reliance on outdated myths within the CPS.
This damning examination, the first major independent probe into the CPS’s approach to prosecuting rape since the promised overhaul of the criminal justice system, has highlighted significant flaws in the system.
The report published by The Guardian warns of a worrying reliance on “new myths” surrounding modern sexual practices and a failure to recognize the impact of trauma on victims.
Ministers were prompted to apologize unreservedly to victims following a catastrophic decline in rape prosecutions since 2016. Subsequently, the government’s rape review in 2021 ordered sweeping changes to the police and CPS, under the banner of Operation Soteria, aimed at rooting out engrained rape myths and focusing on predatory behavior rather than victim credibility.
Despite some progress, the report exposes an ongoing disconnect between lawyers’ understanding of trauma and the realities of case evaluation.
It highlights examples of trivialization of non-penetrative offenses by young complainants and a tendency to dismiss such incidents as “banter” among young people.
Additionally, concerns were raised about the perpetuation of rape myths and stereotypes, with prosecutors demonstrating a lack of understanding of coercive control.
Internal communications at the CPS have acknowledged the need for significant improvements in prosecutors’ approach to rape casework.
Staff have been alerted to the sobering reality that several findings may be difficult to confront, signaling a pressing need for change within the organization.