Sutton rape numbers have doubled in one year

The figures, obtained from the Metropolitan Police website, show the number of reported incidents in the borough rose from 37 to 63 since August 2009.

In 2008, the figure was 18 which is approximately half that of the following year, meaning the number of rapes in Sutton has doubled in each of the last two years.

There has been a rise in reported rape across the capital, with an average 37 per cent increase - although in Sutton the increase is nearly double that figure.

Despite this rise, overall crime in Sutton has dropped by 2,000 from approximately 14,000 crimes to 12,000 crimes in the last year – a decrease of around 10 per cent.

Violent crime and sexual offences are down and across London crime has also dropped, with the rises in rape the exception to a fall in violent and sexual crimes.

DCI Alan Chambers, who leads Sutton CID, said: "The MPS has reorganised to provide a more specialist and improved service to rape victims with offences dealt with under the command of the Specialist Crime Directorate from September 2009.

The ‘Sapphire’ team deals with rape allegations very seriously and we have dedicated, well-trained and experienced officers to ensure that the care and well-being of victims is paramount.

"We believe that the increased willingness on behalf of victims to come forward is reflected in an increase in rape crimes in Sutton and other boroughs across London.

"For example, in Sutton figures show a marked increase for 2009-10 financial year compared to the same periods over the previous three years.

"We want victims of rape - and domestic violence - to have the confidence to report offences - and the Sutton Guardian has helped us on two occasions recently to make DV victims aware of the need to report incidents.

"The MPS regards tackling rape effectively as a priority and we will do everything we can to provide the best possible service to victims and ensure that offenders are prosecuted and brought before the courts."