Training requirements for patrol officers responding to sexual assault incidents: A Delphi stud

Police response to sexual assault continues to be a major concern for criminal justice practitioners and the public. Improved training on responding to sexual assault calls has been identified as the appropriate means to address the problem. Through the use of a Policy Delphi study, a panel of 45 practitioners in fields responsible for working with sexual assault victims and in the criminal justice system identified an extensive list of skills and knowledge essential for effective and compassionate response to sexual assault incidents. Three themes emerged regarding the training required, general police skills and knowledge, skills and knowledge for victim response, and sexual assault specific skills and knowledge. A panel of experts and informed advocates identified 53 general police skills and knowledge, 48 items relating directly to interacting with victims of crime, and 25 items that were specific to responding to a sexual assault incident. The panel also provided recommendations on the most appropriate time in a police officer's career to provide the training The skills and knowledge identified should serve as the basis for developing training for patrol officers responsible for responding to sexual assault calls. This study reinforces the need for training officers in the importance of general police skills in responding to sexual assault cases, the need for improved training regarding the interaction with crime victims, and a requirement to address a number of actions specific to responding to a sexual assault.