Saanich police launched a new investigative unit this week focused on current and historical sexual offences, with an eye to bringing added expertise to cases that require a special approach.
In 2019, the department, which typically sees about 80 or 90 sexual assaults involving adults a year, initiated a program where all sex offences were reviewed by supervisors, she said. But that means ensuring people are comfortable with the way the “sensitive and traumatic nature” of the information they are sharing is handled, Maher said.
Training is key, said Maher, adding “every single member” of the unit has undergone specific training in interviewing children and youth, as well as how to interview survivors of trauma.
No mention made of issue of 'unfounded' sexual assaults that was revealed in 2017 with release of Globe & Mail investigation. Saanich had 10% unfounded rate, lower than Victoria's 13% and much lower than Central Saanich 60%:
How can a person/former victim contact them ?