Too late to report rape?

[kikadoo]

Just a quick question about rape. As far as I understand, it is possible to report rape at any time. Days, weeks, months and even years But if a rape was reported 6 or so years later, is it still possible to try for a conviction?

Wierd question I know.

But thanks to anyone that can answer! :)

Kik.

[daffy654]

The crown prosecution service would examine any evidence to see if a prosecution would be successful.In the case of rape there are unlikely to be witnesses so it would be the word of the victim against the accused.

[barry1010]

Yes. There have been many successful prosecutions of rapists 20, 30 or more years after the event.

[Rollo]

To get a conviction the CPS need evidence to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt.

What evidence is there? After six years I doubt that just one person's word against anothers would be enough.

[barry1010]

Here's one example.
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/ 1086969_man_jailed_for_raping_daughter

[barry1010]

Most rape claims are one person's word against another. It can be proved beyond doubt that intercourse took place, proving it was not consensual is harder.
If you were raped you need to report it. You may not be the only victim.

[daffy654]

That man pleaded guilty though barry,not all (or even many) men would.

[barry1010]

That is true, but there have been many such cases, and no victim should be deterred from reporting a rape.

[daffy654]

I am not trying to deter kikadoo from reporting a rape.She does need to know the facts though,and many reported cases never make it to court due to lack of evidence.

[Twenty20]

What evidence would you give 6 years later to prove it happened?

And, the obvious question you'll be asked is why didn't you report it at the time? And why now?

[pinktwink]

if you were a child when it occurred , were concerned the rapist had raped again or had access to children then yes you can report at any times. By reporting even now your case may link to others or help someone else. It takes courage but if you know someone tell them to report it. Afterall it is a heinous crime