Charity’s fears over reporting sex crimes
The fallout from Salmond’s trial could have a “chilling effect” on the reporting of sex crimes, a charity has claimed.
The former FM was cleared of 13 charges at the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday.
Rape Crisis Scotland has now claimed coverage of the trial and accusations against those making complaints could dissuade people who may wish to come forward in future.
The charity’s boss, Sandy Brindley, said: “The trial of Alex Salmond has exposed the barriers that exist to reporting sexual crimes and we fear it could have a chilling effect on reporting for years to come.
“The significance of this trial goes far beyond Salmond and the women involved in this case. Much of what happened in this trial is replicated across Scotland, compounding the fears of survivors.
“How we respond sends a signal to anyone who might one day try to report a sexual offence.”
She added: “In seeking vengeance against these women, those commenting on this case should reflect on the message they are sending to all those who have experienced sexual crimes and those who one day will.
“From the volume and nature of recent calls to our helpline, we know that when there are public conversations about sexual assault, survivors are listening.
“If we ever hope to move beyond rape and attempted rape having the lowest conviction rate of any crime, then we should be careful of the messages we’re sending.”
Salmond said evidence of a plot to discredit him will “see the light of day”.
He denied all the charges and, giving evidence, claimed some were “deliberate fabrications for a political purpose”.
SNP MP Joanna Cherry called for an independent inquiry into how her party handled the complaints.