60% Increase In Sexual Offences Reports To Police In Harrow

Reports to the police in Harrow for sexual offences increased by 60 percent between 2015 and 2019, new data can reveal.

According to a Freedom of Information Request filed by media literacy charity The Student View, the Metropolitan Police Service recorded 333 incidents in 2019, which was an increase of 125 compared to the 208 reports in 2015.

A total of 616 cases of sexual offences during this time frame did not end in any convictions due to “evidential difficulties”.

Crimes of this nature include rape, sexual assault and abuse, as outlined in the Sexual Offences Act.

Victims of these crimes can report it to the police or visit The Havens specialist centres in London, which can provide medical help and emotional support.

In a letter to all Haven attendees, Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick wrote that whether the victim reports the crime to the police or not, the force takes “sexual assault and rape seriously”.

It read: “Rape and sexual assault are very serious crimes against the person. They also have significant implications for public safety.

“The Metropolitan Police will investigate these crimes and deal with the perpetrators as a matter of priority. We prefer that you report directly and as early as possible as this helps evidence collection.”

Dame Cressida Dick also addressed concerns for those who were afraid to report the incident to police due to their immigration status, drug use or occupation.

She wrote: “Some people have concerns about involving the police. Some are worried that their assault will not be taken seriously.

“I cannot make a guarantee about every  police officers’ actions in all cases.  But I would like to reassure you that my main priority is the investigation and tackling of these very serious crimes.”

Information can also be provided anonymously via the Crimestoppers website or calling 0800 555 111.