Reporting a rape, sexual assault or a sexual offence

It is a serious crime to engage in sexual activity with someone, knowing they do not consent. Anyone can be raped or sexually assaulted regardless of their sex, gender or sexuality.

If you have been sexually assaulted or been a victim of a sexual offence, whether as an adult or a young person, there is support available to you whether you choose to report it to the police or not.

We encourage reporting what has happened but understand it can be a difficult decision to make. You can report something that's happened to you, or to someone else. You can report anonymously, without giving us your details.

Making a report is not the same as agreeing to a full investigation, or being required to attend court, we will always discuss what you would like to happen.

The States of Jersey Police have specialist detectives who are trained to be suspect-focused, victim-centred and context-led. We won't judge you, we'll treat you with respect, and we'll always put your health and wellbeing first.

Report it to the police

You can report the crime to the police:

• Fill in the Online Form
• Call us on 999 in an emergency, or 01534 612612 if it’s not an emergency
• Visit Police Headquarters, La Route du Fort, St Helier, Jersey JE2 4HQ

If possible:

• Keep the clothes (including underwear and sanitary products) you were wearing and do not wash them
• Try not to shower

There may be forensic evidence that the offender has left behind. This could help us prove what has happened. If not, don’t worry, we can still investigate your report, and may still be able to collect forensic evidence.

Anonymous Reports to the Police

If you are not ready for us to know who you are, sharing the details of the suspect and the circumstance is still important.

You can use the Online Form to make a report and choose the ‘Information Report’ option.

Intelligence checks will be conducted on the details you provide, to identify whether anything needs to be done to protect others.

If you choose not to provide your details, we will not be able to contact you after checks have been completed. Your report will be recorded and then closed but will remain on the crime recording system.

Alternative Reporting (Dewberry House Sexual Assault Referral Centre)

Dewberry House (Sexual Assault Referral Centre SARC) is a local organisation which provides free and confidential services for those affected by rape, sexual assault or offences, at any time in their life.

They provide a comprehensive and co-ordinated forensic, counselling and aftercare service to men, women and children living in Jersey who have experienced rape or sexual assault, whether this has happened recently or in the past. They will keep your report confidential and will not share the details with the Police without your consent.

If you want to refer yourself or another, just follow the step-by-step guide on their website or call 01534 888222

Non-recent cases

It can take a long time to be ready to talk to someone about what happened. Even if the rape, sexual assault or abuse happened a long time ago you can still report it, and we may still be able to investigate.

The Police Investigation

If you choose to make a formal complaint, with a view to supporting a criminal investigation and potentially attending court in the event of a prosecution, there are four main phases to the investigation.

An Information and Support Guide is available to help you understand the investigation, identify what support is available and includes some frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Phase 1 – Initial report

A report is made, forensic evidence is gathered (where possible) and support referrals will be offered.

Phase 2 – Investigation

Your statement is taken and the investigation continues with further evidence gathering.

Phase 3 – Building the case

We build the case and may work with the Law Officers' Department (LOD).

Phase 4 – Prosecution decision

A decision is made on whether the suspect(s) will be charged and face trial. You have a right to appeal this decision.

Other Support & Organisations  

To see a list of other support services and organisations, click here.

Information and support guides

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