@article { , title = {Offender-centric policing in cases of rape}, abstract = {The article explores the idea of ‘offender-centric’ policing in cases of rape, with its focus on suspect and offender admissions and behaviours. It features discussion of 11 cases, illustrating offender-centric pathways to charge or conviction, the challenges facing complainants, suspects and police officers, along with missed opportunities to focus on a suspect’s behaviour. The importance of victim care and support is discussed, and it is argued that victim care should accompany an offender-centric approach to rape investigation. It is also argued that there are potential dangers with offender-centric tactics, specifically, that without due care it may become a self-confirming investigative tool influenced by confirmation bias which may lead to flawed decision-making. The article concludes by arguing that offender-centric policing has benefits in those cases with suspects who engage in predatory behaviour, have a history of previously undisclosed sexual offending and domestic violence and other problematic behaviours. It also has value in focusing the attention of investigators on what steps were taken by a suspect to ascertain the complainant’s consent. While the offender-centric approach cannot address all investigative challenges in rape cases, it is a useful addition to existing strategies.}, doi = {10.1177/00220183211027453}, eissn = {1740-5580}, issn = {0022-0183}, issue = {6}, journal = {The Journal of Criminal Law}, note = {Article}, pages = {425-440}, publicationstatus = {Published}, publisher = {SAGE Publications}, url = {https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/7556453}, volume = {85}, keyword = {Formerly Health & Social Sciences, Rape, sexual assault, police, offenders, investigation}, year = {2021}, author = {Rumney, Philip NS and McPhee, Duncan} }