Only 1 in 7 acid attacks in London result in charges
New data from City Hall has revealed that only one in seven acid attacks in London has led to criminal charges in recent years, raising concerns about the investigation and prosecution of such violent crimes, Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports.
This revelation follows the recent attack involving a 14-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy, who, along with a staff member, were hospitalised after an acid assault in Westminster.
Scotland Yard arrested a 35-year-old man on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, but the low rate of prosecutions in acid attack cases has drawn criticism. In the 2019/20 financial year, only 15.7% of recorded acid attacks resulted in charges, with this figure fluctuating slightly over the following years.
Worryingly, the charge rate dropped to just 6.9% in 2023/24, and a mere 3.2% between April and August this year, though these figures may rise as investigations progress.
Gareth Roberts, a Liberal Democrat member of the London Assembly, called on the Mayor of London and the Metropolitan Police to prioritise the investigation of acid attacks and ensure they face the “full force of the law.” He acknowledged, however, that government restrictions on the sale of corrosive substances have contributed to a significant reduction in acid attacks. While 278 incidents were recorded in 2019/20, this number dropped by more than half in subsequent years.
A spokesperson for Scotland Yard emphasised that serious assaults, including acid attacks, are prioritised, with officers receiving specialised training and equipped with treatment kits. The force also works with the Crown Prosecution Service and has partnered with schools to raise awareness.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan reinforced the need for a zero-tolerance approach to acid attacks, supporting the police's efforts to respond effectively and work with local communities to build a safer city for all.