New way of classifying sexual assaults could be adopted across country
SASKATOON A Saskatoon Police Service review of sexual assault investigations could lead to a more accurate reflection of the number of sex crimes committed across Canada.
A review of sexual assault cases classified as “unfounded” in Saskatoon from 2011 to 2016 suggested the 284 cases had been thoroughly investigated, but that a new category would be helpful.
The review found 49 of the cases would have better fit in a new category to reflect incidents where police believe an offence occurred, but cannot gather sufficient evidence to proceed with charges.
As with all other criminal complaints, sexual assaults are classified as either founded or unfounded. The review, conducted by retired inspector Shelley Ballard, found a third option, “founded — unable to substantiate,” would be useful.
“These investigations are very challenging,” Supt. Dave Haye told the Saskatoon board of police commissioners Thursday.
Haye told the board the new classification could be adopted nationwide sometime in 2018 through discussions with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, in part due to the review of the Saskatoon cases.
The Saskatoon Sexual Assault and Information Centre issued a statement this week voicing support for the “founded — unable to substantiate” category.
The review, prompted by national concern about the higher rate of sexual assault cases that are deemed unfounded compared to other offences, found that 82 per cent of the cases clearly belonged in the unfounded category.
They were found to be instances in which either no offence was committed (35.5 per cent), a false complaint was made (27.5 per cent) or sex was consensual (15.5 per cent).
The review found the complexity of sexual assault cases and the number of different offences could be responsible for higher rates of “unfounded” offences.
Haye told the board on Thursday that over the six years reviewed, 1,028 sexual offences were reported, 27.6 per cent of which were classified as unfounded.
Haye said Saskatoon police employ eight officers to investigate sexual offences. Police board members said they want to ensure patrol officers receive ongoing training, since they often have first contact with complainants.
These investigations are very challenging.