Handbook on Sexual Violence (30 page)

During investigation STO maintains regular and appropriate contact with victim and support during: follow-up SARC visits; identification procedures; referrals to other agencies; CPS pre-trial witness interview

STO updates SIO and IO. IO liaises with forensic crime scene investigators to ensure best evidence is retrieved

Frontline staff contact IO, who deploys STO who should be with the victim within one hour

Initial account made to police

STO considers forensic window, may seize items

STO takes victim to SARC

STO conducts formal interview with victim

Case concluded – suspect not charged

STO explains to victim, discusses any remaining issues. Victim may meet CPS with STO

STO ensures victim has ongoing counselling and support

Suspect charged

STO = Specially Trained Officer

STO takes victim to court for

pre-trial visit, special measures

meeting and liaises with witness services

STO accompanies victim to court whilst providing evidence and informs victim of court result