Tips for Smart Cops Series
Handling victims of sexual assault

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1. There are some initial procedures that have to be observed in handling the victim of a sexual assault case in a police station. Under the procedures the victim should be immediately escorted to a separate unoccupied room. In the case of a minor, the child's parent or guardian should accompany him or her. In the case of an adult, any family or companion may accompany the victim if this is desirable. (FPM 34-02)

2. The victim should be interviewed as soon as possible by an officer, who has been trained to deal with victims of such cases. Pending the arrival of the officer, arrangements should be made for a woman officer to elicit the victim's personal particulars, and ascertain whether immediate medical attention is required. (FPM 34-02)

3. The victim should not be directly interviewed by a male officer as far as possible, or asked to recount the ordeal in a report room or Crime office where male officers or other persons are present. (FPM 34-02)

4. A woman officer should remain with the victim throughout the initial investigation. (FPM 34-02)

5. If the victim is unable to give a coherent statement due to shock or emotional problems, consideration should be given to seeking advice and assistance from the Senior Force Clinical Psychologist. (FPM 34-02)

(This column is contributed by Complaints and Internal Investigations Branch)