FURY AS RAPISTS LET OFF SIMPLY BY SAYING SORRY

Court get-out on 870sex offences

- JOHN SIDDLE and GERALDINE McKELVIE

RAPISTS and other sex offenders were let off in hundreds of cases over two years – by saying sorry.

Their offences were dealt with by so-called community resolution, in which the offender admits guilt but does not get a record or punishment beyond an apology or compensation.

It is intended for low-level crimes, but some police forces have used it in rape and child grooming cases.

Victims are consulted but do not get a say on prosecution as official guidance says their view is “not definitive”.

Of 870 cases since 2020, seven were rapes. Five of the victims were children.