NCJ Number
226512
Journal
International Journal of Police Science & Management Volume: 10 Issue: 4 Dated: Winter 2008 Pages: 486-508
Date Published
2008
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This study examined the services to male rape survivors provided by officers of the London Metropolitan Police who had been specially trained in Sexual Offenses Investigative Techniques (SOIT).
Abstract
Of the sample of rape survivors obtained (120 females and 34 males), few had SOIT-type officers working on their cases, so the focus of the research was expanded to the service of the police officers who responded to these rape cases. Thus, the results pertain to the wider police response to rape survivors, with an emphasis on the treatment provided by SOIT officers. Very few male rape cases are reported, and even few ever make it to trial. Over the course of the careers of this SOIT officer sample (n=19), they had only dealt with a limited number of cases with male victims; 53 percent of the SOIT officers had dealt with a maximum of 3 male rape cases during their careers, and none of these cases reached the trial stage. Male survivors of rape suggested that stereotypes and ignorance surrounding the issue of male rape survivors should be addressed through training. SOIT officers described their training as focusing on female rape survivors; and when male rape survivors were discussed, the focus was on the physiological reaction to anal rape and the likely confusion and feelings of guilt. Male rape has many inherent complexities associated with masculinity that underlie various attitudes and responses to male rape survivors. Male rape survivors reported a confrontational approach in interviews with officers. Some reported being shouted at, assumptions made about their sexual orientation, and assertions made about their occupation. It was also taken for granted that the male survivor would want a female liaison officer, implying that they would be perceived by male survivors as more sensitive and caring. 71 references and appended discussion of the historical context for police training in sexual assault response and the policing response to rape