Advice required re the way forward

[ruthandsam]

Is it possible to make a statement (about being sexually abused) to the Police/AN Other but ask them not to take it any further. Advice was given by counsellor that if the case were to come to court, it would highly likely be thrown out, due to lack of evidence. Also, counsellor mentioned that it would attract undue attention in local press especially if unproven. Also the stress involved would be very high.

What if the abuser goes onto to do it to another? It is more a case of taking control of the situation and putting closure on it. Sorry to sound so generic but I'm trying to protect a member of my family.

[woofgang]

strange counsellor....he or she should be exploring what is right for the individual, not giving their own views. If it isn't taken any further then nothing will happen to the abuser and they may go on to abuse again. If the person is seeking closure, could they write to or confront the abuser? I doubt that the police want to know if it the information can't be used. Difficult circs, my sympathy.

[sara3]

I think you have to weigh up the chances of whether this person may be in a position to re-offend.
also, the police may have other evidence from other parties, and your statement might be the one to tip it over to criminal proceedings.
a friend of mine reported a school teacher, many years after the offence. it went to court with a large bundle of other statements, and the teacher went to prison.
I'm not saying it's right or wrong in your case, but I'm also surprised that your counsellor hasn't looked into the matter further. why don't you call the nspcc (or some similar charity) and get some advice?
best of luck to you.

[ruthandsam]

Thanks Woofgang

I know for a fact that there is a database kept of Allegations made against someone, by Social Services in the event of the accused applying for a job with vulnerable adults and children even if the allegation turned out to be Unsubstantiated, Unproven, Malicious, etc.

Writing to them might just be the way forward.

Thank you.

[woofgang]

ruth that sounds a bit scarey and deffo against the data protection act.

[ruthandsam]

Oooops - I now realised that my last sentence "Writing to them..........." was in the wrong context. I meant the family member writing to the abuser as mentioned before.

Thanks Woofgang.

[woofgang]

No prob... My prayers go with your family member.

[ruthandsam]

Thank you for your responses. They mean a lot to me................x