The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has been strongly criticised for its inadequate handling of rape allegations at the pre-charge stage, according to a damning report by His Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI). Inspectors found that prosecutors are still placing disproportionate focus on the credibility of victims, rather than examining the behaviours and actions of suspects.
The review assessed how well the CPS has implemented the ‘suspect-centric’ approach introduced in 2023, which requires prosecutors to scrutinise a suspect’s conduct before, during and after the alleged offence. Shockingly, only 23% of cases fully met this standard, while 38% failed to meet it altogether.
Chief inspector Anthony Rogers described the CPS’s overall performance in these cases as “not good enough”. The report highlighted an ongoing cultural issue where victim credibility is overly interrogated, while the actions and motivations of suspects receive insufficient critical analysis.
Failure to Recognise Coercive and Controlling Behaviour
Inspectors were particularly concerned by how prosecutors handle rape cases involving domestic abuse. In one example, a victim who had reported being raped multiple times by her husband was subjected to an analysis that ignored clear signs of grooming behaviour. Instead, the focus remained on questioning her account, undermining the intended suspect-focused strategy.
The report also flagged a lack of understanding around coercive control, with prosecutors often missing the broader context of abuse that can underpin allegations of sexual violence.
CPS Accepts Criticism and Promises Reform
Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson acknowledged the failings and confirmed that the CPS is implementing a national action plan in response. While inspectors found that at least one charge of rape or attempted rape had been brought in every case reviewed, Parkinson admitted more must be done:
“Improving how we prosecute rape is my priority. I will focus on the quality of our case analysis and strategy, better support for victims, and addressing unacceptable inconsistencies.”
Have You Been a Victim of Rape or Serious Assault? You May Be Eligible for Compensation via CICA
If you or someone close to you has suffered sexual violence, you may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). We will help you every step of the way to make a claim for rape or serious sexual assault thought the CICA. At Hutcheon Law, we support survivors in obtaining the justice and financial redress they deserve — even if no criminal conviction has been secured.
You must report the crime to the police and co-operate with the investigation, but you do not need to go through the legal system alone. We can guide you through every step of the CICA process, ensuring your application is as strong as possible.
To begin your claim, visit our dedicated page on criminal injuries compensation CICA claims.
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