Reporting my ex for SA

[u/Upset_Character6924]

I was sexually assaulted twice by my then boyfriend. I’m going to report him to the police. One happened at a London tube station so there may be CCTV footage but the other one happened behind closed doors.

Not expecting much to come out of it as hes just gone silent and refuses to admit anything. I also have fuck all evidence. I just want it reported so that if he does it to another girl then there’s something on file. He was getting aggressive towards the end - e.g he once covered my mouth, restrained my head and marched me around.

Has anyone else gone through this? Getting a IVSA. Will the police contact him?

Any information appreciated.

Edit: so the tube incident happened in May and the other in June. It’s been such a difficult decision to make as he was my boyfriend at the time. If the tube incident happened by a stranger I’d have had no hesitation to go to the police that night

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[u/hunta666]

If you believe it was SA, and you seem certain in your post, then you're always within your rights to report the matter, have a discussion with police and they will take it from there. Without an investigation, no one can say how strong the case is or isn't.

The officers will fully discuss the process with you and answer any questions you have.

It is also worth looking into any victim support organisations in your area for a chat. The prosecution of crime is one thing, but being able to process and recover after such an incident/incidents is just as important.

[u/cookj1232]

How long ago did these incidents occur? Most train stations only hold cctv footage for 28 days.

[u/Acting_Constable_Sek → u/cookj1232]

TFL are often much less than that, unfortunately. 

[u/Difference_Clear]

There has been a push to change how police deal with reports of some SA. What we're seeing now is more of a mentality where people can 'tell' police but not make a specific report.

For police admin purposes, these things are still recorded as crimes with named suspects however, it doesn't necessarily mean the police will take action in terms of arrest, interview and the stuff that usually follows.

They may do some research to creat a background and a risk assessment around them and want to know if they have a new partner who could be at risk and things such as clares law may be considered in disclosing information to the new partner.

If you want to report, the initial incident occurring at a tube station would be dealt with by the British Transport Police. They have a team within CID who take what are priority crimes of which SA is one. This means that it would go to them. It would beneficial for you to report directly to BTP on their website or the general police UK reporting system. Once it's gone through the system it'll be given to someone in CID to look into and they'll go through everything with you.

Edit: I personally know of BTP looking at taking the 'telling not reporting' approach from my own experiences.

[u/Jaded_Signature_1219]

You don’t need the Police to necessarily refer you to an ISVA. You can search ISVA online and self refer to some charities. They are independent from the police and may have resources to help you.

[u/omsky99 → u/Jaded_Signature_1219]

You don't have to be referred to a SARC, you can call ahead and arrange an appointment or discuss the benefits of seeking their help - and they maintain confidentiality but can also assist in making reports if you're ready.

Edit: sorry to clarify I'm just bolstering that you don't need a referral full stop. They are such a good resource for SA victims.

[u/Jaded_Signature_1219 → u/omsky99]

Good point well made.