West Midlands Police has declared significant progress in its handling of rape investigations, with the number of charges or summons issued nearly doubling over a recent nine-month period. The force attributes this improvement to dedicated efforts and specialised operational strategies aimed at enhancing support for victims and pursuing offenders more effectively.
Substantial Increase in Positive Outcomes
According to official data released by the police, there were a total of 416 'positive outcomes' recorded between April of last year and January 2026. This figure represents a positive outcome rate of more than 11 per cent, a notable rise from the 6 per cent rate observed in the preceding comparable timeframe. The term 'positive outcomes' encompasses not only charges or summons but also includes community resolutions and cautions, indicating a broader approach to case resolution.
Operational Enhancements and National Initiatives
The police statement highlighted that the force is actively improving its response to rape offences, with the positive outcome rate nearly doubling from the same period last year. In November 2025, West Midlands Police achieved its highest-ever positive outcome rate for rape cases at 14.2 per cent, marking a historic milestone in the force's efforts to combat sexual violence.
West Midlands Police serves as a pathfinder force for Operation Soteria, a national project designed to refine how police forces investigate rape and serious sexual offences. Since engaging with this initiative, the force has transformed its investigative methodologies, leading to an increased number of offenders being brought before the courts. The Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team, comprising over a hundred experienced officers, plays a crucial role in this process, focusing on victim-centred and suspect-focused approaches.
Data-Driven Strategies and Civil Orders
To enhance community safety, the police employ data analytics to identify offenders who pose the greatest risk of harm. By collaborating across various departments, the force prioritises locating and arresting suspects. In addition to criminal prosecutions, police also apply for civil orders such as Sexual Risk Orders (SROs), which can be issued without a conviction to restrict an individual's behaviour and protect the public from sexual harm. Breaching an SRO can result in up to five years in prison.
Furthermore, upon conviction of a sexual offence, police can issue Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPOs), which similarly impose restrictions on offenders' behaviour to prevent further harm. These measures underscore the force's comprehensive strategy to address and mitigate sexual violence within the community.
Commitment to Supporting Victims
Detective Superintendent Matt Underwood, Head of the RASSO team, emphasised the complexity of rape and sexual offence investigations. He stated, "Our officers are committed to getting victims the best possible outcome. We take every report of rape and sexual offences extremely seriously. Our officers are specially trained to thoroughly investigate reports and ensure that those reporting them are properly supported."
He added, "We know that our words and actions matter, and we are more determined than ever to make a difference to the lives of those affected by these horrific crimes." This commitment aligns with the force's priority to combat violence against women and girls, pledging protection in domestic, online, and public spaces.
The reported improvements reflect a concerted effort by West Midlands Police to enhance investigative practices, support victims, and hold offenders accountable, contributing to safer communities across the region.
