Sex Crime Victims Promised Better Protection

Friday, 23 November 2018 08:40

Victims of sex offences are being promised greater protection under a new law that comes into effect today.

The updated Sexual Offences legislation more clearly defines consent, and makes it clear that people of any gender can be a victim of sex crimes.

"Consent cannot be given if a person is asleep, unconscious or incapable of consenting due to alcohol or any other substance. Furthermore, consent can be taken back at any time before or during the act; if the act still takes place or continues then it does so without consent."

Attackers who have had previous sexual relations with victim will not longer be able to use that as a defence.

The new law makes a specific offence of upskirting - taking photos up a person's skirt - and it provides for sentences of up to ten years in prison for anyone convicted of child grooming.

The changes have been welcomed by organisation that work with victims.

" I am proud that our government has taken action in implementing the new legislation. These types of crime have a devastating impact on all aspects of a victim's life, and laws must be in place to ensure protection and access to justice. I hope this new law will be a major step forward in challenging the attitudes and behaviours in our society that underpin sexual violence." - Laura Osmond, co-ordinator of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Dewberry House.

The NSPCC says Jersey is making 'significant progress' to protect children from being groomed and 'punish those who commit these appalling and targeted crimes'.

A guide to the Sexual Offences (Jersey) Law 2018 has been published in English, Portuguese and Police and is available on the gov.je website.

More from Jersey News

Jury finds Shay John Bester guilty of offences including rape

Shay John Bester has been found guilty, after going on trial for offences including six counts of rape against three young, vulnerable females.
African community groups express 'disappointment' with Deputy Ozouf sentencing

Friends of Africa Jersey and the Kenyans in Jersey Committee have come together to express their disappointment following Deputy Philip Ozouf's sentencing, and are calling for increased protection for workers who speak out about exploitation.
Island Energy to return to Royal Court over Mont Pinel gas explosion

Island Energy is set to return to the Royal Court to enter pleas after being charged by the Health and Safety Inspectorate over a gas explosion at Mont Pinel.
Jersey to introduce legal limit for PFAS in drinking water

A legal limit for PFAS in Jersey's drinking water will be introduced for the first time.
Jersey Electricity drops St Martin solar farm idea

Jersey Electricity has dropped plans for a solar farm on land in St Martin belonging to the King.
PPC won't move to block Deputy's return to States Assembly

The committee that oversees States Members' conduct says it won't being a proposition to further suspend Deputy Philip Ozouf following his conviction for immigration offences.
Jersey's next government urged to create laws preventing exploitation of workers

Charities in Jersey are urging politicians to prioritise drawing up laws to abolish modern-day slavery.
Philip Ozouf sentenced to 120 hours community service

Deputy Philip Ozouf has been sentenced to 120 hours community service and ordered to pay £5,000 for immigration offences.