If I were to report a historic assault, what would happen?

[needingclosure]

To be more specific- a stabbing, by my xh. Has ds on my lap at the time. Was too scared to report, as was terrified I'd lose the kids- that's what he'd drilled me to fear.

It happened 6years ago, in may 2008.

What would happen? Would it be taken seriously? Investigated? Would they be likely to take any action at all, or just log?

[needingclosure]

Bump?

[tb]

I reported sexual assaults from the 1970s. Presumably, it's the same for any historic assault.

I called the police, and got given a contact. Sent them the details - I live overseas - and eventually, went to make a statement. They were lovely.

Eventually, in my case, the cps decided there wasn't enough evidence to prosecute. This was despite the person's diocesan personnel file being full of information - they were an ordinand in training at the time, and are now a vicar. Funny, recently, there have been press queries of a too close relationship between the police and the CofE.

I think, with operation Yewtree, it may have been handled a little differently if I'd made the complaint now, rather than in 2007.

Whether or not they prosecute depends on whether or not there is sufficient evidence.

Good luck.

[sillymillyb]

I'm sorry you haven't had more answers - I can only give you my experience, which is sort of similar.

I reported historic sexual abuse from when I was a child. A pc came to the house first to talk to me, then to take a statement. She was lovely, sensitive and not at all judgemental.

In the end I decided not to take it further as it was my word against his, but said I would like it left on record should anyone else come forward.

Maybe you could call the local police and talk to them about even just having it put on his record - no or pressured me to either take it further or leave it as I did. It was totally in my hands.

Lastly, well done on leaving - I hope you have a better life now

[needingclosure]

Thank you for your replies, I'm sorry it didn't get taken any further tb, that must have been upsetting.

Thank you for sharing your experience too milly.

I expect there were sexual assaults/rape during that time, but for me the line becomes cloudy- I guess that's the conditioning. Ringing them is a good idea. I don't want to be discussing it with the dc or dp around. Dc for obvious reasons, and dp because it distresses him. He knows and understands my history, but it's different to having it stuck under your nose in discussion. Head be there by my side if I took it further.

Leaving was the best thing I did, I wish I'd done it sooner. I fully believe I'd be dead by now otherwise. I am so lucky, I have a fantastic life that is full of love and laughter.

So, to polish my steel gonads and make a call... maybe tomorrow, I have dd1's sports day today!