The formal statement provided to police will be used to inform the police investigation. Depending on how long the incident took place, the police may attend the location where the offence(s) took place to collect evidence. They may also take statements from any witnesses or others who may have information pertinent to the case.
In some cases police seek to obtain additional evidence which may also include documents, telecommunications records, closed circuit television footage or other evidence that is availalble and relevant to their investigations. The investigation may take several weeks or months depending on the amount of evidence and difficulty in collecting it.
People who make contact with the AFP Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Team (SACAT) will be provided with the contact details of the investigating officer(s) and the police Victim Liaison Service. Victims are welcome to contact one of the Victim Liaison Officers or police officers if they have any questions regarding police processes relevant to their case.
Below we look at The Brief of Evidence and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and When There Is Not Enough Evidence.
The Brief of Evidence and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)
The police will compile a brief of evidence including the victims statement, the statements provided by any other witnesses and other important information obtained during their investigation. This brief of evidence is reviewed, and the police liaise with the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a prosecution.
When There Is Not Enough Evidence
In those instances where it is deemed there is insufficient evidence to proceed with court, it is important that you get support to process the impact of this news. Just because it is not able to proceed does not mean that people do not believe you were sexually assaulted. Unfortunately there are many cases where there simply was not enough information to lead a successful prosecution so the case is unable to proceed.
Contact the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 6247 2525 to use the crisis line for support and to access counselling services.
The Canberra Rape Crisis Centre (CRCC) is a non-government, Feminist organisation working collaboratively within service provision systems in the ACT and surrounding areas to provide services and programs to eliminate sexual violence in our community.
We provide a crisis counselling line, information and referral, advocacy and counselling services to victim survivors. Our services extend to provide Indigenous community support, as well as community education and training programs.
CRCC is committed to excellence in service provision, access and equity, diversity and inclusion.
Canberra Rape Crisis Centre
P.O Box 3805,
WESTON CREEK, Act 2611
Crisis Phone Line (02) 6247 2525
Crisis Text Contact Only 0488 586 518
Crisis Email Contact crisis@crcc.org.au
Business Contact Line (02) 6287 3618
Business, Media, Administration, and Community Engagement Enquiries
crcc@crcc.org.au
©2023, Canberra Rape Crisis Centre. All rights reserved.
