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Letter: Writer takes issue with term 'unfounded' in sex assaults coverage

Some rapists have learned how to 'play the system'
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“Unfounded” doesn't mean a sexual assault hasn't taken place, says letter-writer Vikki Cunningham. Supplied photo.

Editor's note: The following letter is in response to the article, “Police reviewing nearly 400 cases following sexual assault report.” 

“Unfounded” at first glance may appear to mean there is no basis to believe the complaint. Actually, it means there is not enough evidence to proceed with an investigation and have a good chance of getting a conviction. 

There are numerous reasons why sexual assault can be difficult to investigate and prove, such as not wanting to believe you have been raped, delaying before calling police or going to the hospital for examination and collecting specimens, difficulty with concentration and memory after having been drugged, etc.

It is a myth that sexual assault is usually an impulsive act. It is often thoroughly planned in advance, including how long it will take the victim to be able to take stock of what has been done to them before they can take action.  

Some rapists even swap tips and success stories with each other, including how to discredit the victim and how to deal with police if and when they do investigate.

What the police label as “unfounded sexual assault cases,” the rapists are calling their success stories.

What does the 33 per cent represent? Certainly, some of it may be due to valid reports that have been unfairly dismissed by police, which this investigation may help address.  

We also need to be aware that some portion of that 33 per cent represents rapists who have figured out how to “play the system” to their own advantage.   
   
Vikki Cunningham
Sudbury