Sexual assault can now be reported online to Sault Ste. Marie Police, using their online reporting system.
In adding this option, police want to reduce the stress on victims, encourage them to come forward and receive the support they need.
The Sault Ste. Marie Police press release is included below.
The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is always looking for ways to enhance the level of service for the people of Sault Ste. Marie and Prince Township. The Online Reporting System has been a success, and we are now offering new reportable incidents online.
Now, victims can use our Online Reporting System to report incidents of sexual assault.
“Accepting sexual assault reports online is solely aimed at providing the victim with the most efficient and thorough service possible,” says Sergeant Marc Dubie of the Central Support Bureau. “Online reporting allows victims a confidential means to report this crime and will allow us to assign the appropriate officer to investigate more quickly.”
The additional reporting option will hopefully lessen the stress on victims and encourage them to come forward.
“Our goal as a service is to support victims and the people of our community at all times,” says Chief Hugh Stevenson. “In 2021 we received 800 reports through our Online Reporting System, and this year to date we have received approximately 291.”
Members of the Central Support Bureau (CSB) monitor all online reports and connect with complainants to assist in the investigation process. The service will continue to examine the possibility of additional crimes for the Online Reporting System.
To learn more about our Online Report System, including parameters on reporting Sexual Assaults online, please visit www.saultpolice.ca/reporting and read our Sexual Assault Information Sheet.