Training review over stalking case figures
Police chiefs say training for officers around stalking is being reviewed after it was revealed only a quarter of complaints in the West Midlands lead to a suspect being taken to court.
The West Midlands force said stalking was a crime it takes seriously and urged victims to report it.
Figures showed only 26 per cent of cases (455) were referred to the Criminal Prosecution Service for criminal charges and ultimately leading to court proceedings.
Police handed out 65 cautions for stalking over the period, meaning no action was taken in more than 1,000 cases.
West Midlands Police lead for stalking, Inspector Jenny Bean, said: "We appreciate the distress unwanted, persistent attention can have on victims and anyone who feels they are being stalked or harassed should contact us so we can take action − and I would encourage them to get in touch at an early stage as we recognise that stalking can escalate to physical assaults.
"We are in the process of reviewing our training for all police officers and staff so that everyone in the force fully understands stalking and recognises the signs so that cases are not missed or wrongly interpreted.
"A new joint working protocol was introduced last year between the police and CPS which will see an emphasis on seeking criminal charges against anyone shown to be displaying stalking behaviour.
"And West Midlands Police sits on a national working group which brings together police, partners, the Home Office and charities to share learning and improve response to stalking victims."
