23 rapes in six months

The PSNI released the statistic as it relaunched its Be SMART – Rape awareness campaign.

Across NI for first six months of the financial year (1 April – 30 September) there have been 266 rape offences in comparison to 304 for the same period last year.

The clearance rate from April to 18 November of this year is 24.1 per cent in comparison to 17 per cent for the same period last year that is an increase of 7.1 per cent.

Detective Inspector Gillian Kearney said: “Our figures show that there has been a decrease of 38 rapes or attempted rapes in the first six months of this financial year. Although our clearance rates have increased, we do not want to take this for granted or become complacent.

“With the Christmas party season now fully underway, I would encourage young people to be mindful about the amount of alcohol they consume on a night out. They should think, do I really need this last drink? It could end up being the one that they regret taking for many years to come.

“Sex without consent is rape and the consequences for being convicted can have a devastating effect on both the victim and the accused.

“It is something sadly, the victim will have to live with for the rest of their life and it is likely that the accused will spend a very long time behind bars.”

She said the PSNI want the campaign to encourage people to make more informed, responsible and healthy decisions about their alcohol intake.

Susan Reid from Victim Support NI said: “Rape shouldn’t happen to anyone. If it happens to you we want you to remember that it isn’t your fault. The effects of this type of crime can have harmful effects over time if you don’t seek help. If we can’t get you the support and information you need, we can put you in touch with the people and organisations who can.”