Hi, my name is Mary and I’m a 28 year old healthcare worker who has recently graduated and since been working in a hospital in London.

WHAT HAPPENED

In January 2018, I was raped by a man I knew. I reported this to the police the next day, was interviewed, forensically examined and gave my phone to them for digital download. I did absolutely everything I could to assist with the investigation.

The police then transferred my case to the CPS for a charging decision but unfortunately, they decided not to charge him and closed the case without interviewing him. 

This decision was partly due to the fact he had not been interviewed and therefore hadn’t given his side of the story. However, they felt that even if he had been interviewed, it’s likely he would have denied what had happened

Going through this process for over two years only to find there would be no further action whilst being aware that my attacker was not approached once, has had a huge impact on my daily life and mental health. This is something I’m still living with today. I feel as if my case has not been taken seriously by the police and CPS despite my cooperation and honesty throughout the process.

Victims of sexual violence should be in a position where they can report a crime, feel they are being listened to and a full investigation be carried out. It’s known that many victims of sexual violence do not report to the police because of situations similar to mine discouraging them from doing so.

CHALLENGING THE CPS DECISION

I have asked the CPS to review their decision to close my case through the Victim’s Right to Review scheme. This will mean making legal submissions to the CPS as to why the man who attacked me should be charged and the prosecution continue.

The criminal justice system and its process however, is often lengthy and intimidating. Therefore, the support of a lawyer is crucial for me to be able to achieve this and get justice. 

As a recent graduate and NHS worker, I don’t have the necessary funds to cover my legal fees meaning my case would remain closed without the man who raped me even being interviewed. Any contribution however big or small would be hugely appreciated. Please share this page with your friends and family on social media.

HOW THE CPS IS FAILING WOMEN LIKE ME

Whilst there has been a huge increase in the number of rapes being reported to the police (an increase of 173% since 2014), there has been a dramatic decrease in the number of rape and sexual assault prosecutions. Half as many rapists are now being charged. 

I’ve been treated unfairly throughout the process and I feel let down by the CPS. I feel as if they have looked for any reason they can to try and justify not proceeding with the prosecution and I don’t believe my case has been given a chance.

WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP?

With the help of my lawyer, I have asked the CPS to review their decision with detailed reasons as to why the prosecution should continue. I need my lawyer to continue to liaise with the CPS, to advise me about their decision (once we have received it) and if the CPS decide not to reverse their decision, to bring a further challenge.

HOW MUCH ARE WE RAISING AND WHY

I’m aiming to raise an initial £1,800 for the work that has been done by my lawyer for the Victim’s Right to Review Scheme and to cover the ongoing work my lawyer is doing in liaising with the CPS and supporting me through the process.

If the CPS do not reverse their decision, we will need to raise more so that we are able to challenge the decision further.

Victim’s should not have to suffer in silence whilst their attackers continue with life as normal.

Any contribution towards this case will be massively appreciated. Thank you.