Full Breakdown
Report Highlights Inaction on Sexual Offences in Police Forces
12/3/2025, 2:33:19 AM
Overview of the Findings
A recent report by Dame Elish Angiolini reveals that 26% of police forces in England and Wales have not implemented essential policies for investigating sexual offences, despite commitments made following the murder of Sarah Everard in March 2021. Everard was abducted by serving police officer Wayne Couzens, prompting widespread calls for reform to enhance women's safety. Angiolini's report criticizes the lack of progress, stating that women continue to be failed by the system, with sexual crimes against women in public spaces remaining prevalent.
Key Issues Identified
The report highlights a "paralysis" in the implementation of necessary changes, with many police forces still lacking basic investigative protocols. Angiolini emphasizes the need for a shift in focus towards addressing predatory behavior rather than relying solely on improved street lighting or safety advice for women. She calls for better mapping of attacks to understand the patterns of male offenders and urges for a more robust investigation of sexual crimes.
Criticism of Government and Police Response
Angiolini points out that the Labour government's strategy to fulfill its promises regarding women's safety has yet to materialize, nearly a year after taking office. She notes that the previous Conservative government's claims of prioritizing violence against women were undermined by inadequate funding. The report underscores a disparity in how violence against women is treated compared to other national security issues, such as counter-terrorism.
Voices of Grief and Concern
Susan Everard, Sarah's mother, expressed her ongoing anguish, stating, “I go through a turmoil of emotions: sadness, rage, panic, guilt and numbness.” This sentiment reflects the broader emotional toll on families affected by violence against women. Angiolini's report also includes perspectives from advocates like Andrea Simon, who voiced concerns about the lack of fundamental reforms in policing, particularly the failure to ban officers with sexual offence histories.
Official Responses and Future Directions
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood reiterated the government's commitment to halving violence against women and girls within a decade, promising a forthcoming strategy to address these issues. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Helen Millichap acknowledged the urgent need for action and emphasized the police's determination to collaborate with various agencies to tackle the harms faced by women and girls.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Angiolini's report concludes with 13 new recommendations aimed at fostering long-term change, criticizing the current reliance on short-term measures. A follow-up report is expected next year, which will delve into police culture and examine the case of David Carrick, another officer who perpetrated violence against women. The report serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring women's safety and the need for substantial, coordinated efforts to address these systemic issues.
