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Police reminder not to cross the line when celebrating the New Year

Press Releases

Published: 30/12/2010


‘Cross the line and it’s rape’ is a stark message for people out to enjoy the celebrations this New Year’s Eve, but an important one.

Analysis of sexual offences reported in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in the past year show that alcohol is a key influencer, with either the victim, offender, or both parties having consumed alcohol at some point before the incident.

Many people will be out drinking at bars, clubs and parties to celebrate the arrival of 2011, and police are issuing a timely reminder to people to ensure they do not drink so much they cross the line by engaging in sexual activity without the express consent of the other person involved.

Detective Chief Inspector Ben Snuggs said, “We aren’t looking to put a dampener on anyone’s plans or scare them unnecessarily; we want people to enjoy themselves this New Year’s Eve, but to do so safely and responsibly.

“When people go out and drink alcohol they tend to take more risks than normal, and may be inclined to go home with someone they just met or don’t know very well when ordinarily they wouldn’t do so.

“One of the biggest issues we come across in reported incidents of rape or sexual assault is consent – our simple message is that anything less than a yes is a no. If a person isn’t clear about what they want to do or they are impaired by drink or drugs and can’t give their consent properly, do not take it any further.

“We would urge people to take care, but if you need to report an incident to the police we have specially trained officers who are experts in handling traumatic and sensitive cases such as sexual offences. If you don’t want to speak to the police, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, also known as Treetops, can also provide you with the highest level of medical care and support services.

“Our ‘don’t cross the line’ campaign gives the clear message about consent, and we want people to realise that rape isn’t always the stereotypical stranger attack, it’s more often committed by someone you know.

“We are encouraging people to be safe and enjoy this New Year’s Eve; make sure you know how you are getting home, stay with your friends, and know your limits when you are drinking.” 

To find out more about the campaign, visit the microsite at www.dontcrosstheline.co.uk

More advice for those experiencing sexual abuse in a domestic situation can be found at www.hampshiredomesticabuse.org.uk

Details of the SARC (Treetops) can be found on the centre’s website; www.treetopscentre.co.uk 


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