A FREEDOM of Information request has revealed a sharp rise in rape charges in County Durham this year.

It also showed false reporting, or reports later not classed as a crime, doubled in Cleveland over the past five years.

Campaigners believe the figures do not tell the whole story and point to a conviction rate of only 6.5 per cent nationally.

Officers are aiming to tackle sex criminals with speciallytrained officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Goundry, of Durham Police, said the force’s rise in charges from 49 to 71 showed officers push to prosecute.

He said: “As with most offences, the number of reported rapes varies from one year to the next.

“But in Durham, we have one of the highest conviction rates in the country for this offence, and a high percentage of those crimes reported lead to charges being brought.”

He also said people should aim to protect themselves during the party season.

“The vast majority of rape victims are women, who are targeted by someone they know,”

he said.

“But at this time of year, we would remind people they all have the potential to be a victim when large amounts of drink are being consumed.

“Never put yourself in a position where you are unable to make a rational decision about your personal safety.

“Look after your friends and make sure they look after you so you all get home safely.”

Cleveland Police officials say the rise from 25 to 47 in what appear to be false reports over five years, could be down to how figures are recorded.

Detective Chief Superintendent Stewart Swinson said: “Many rapes go unreported, and we would urge those who have been a victim to come forward and speak with police.

“Every sexual offence reported to us is investigated thoroughly by trained officers, and we also work closely with the voluntary sector to support victims and bring offenders to justice wherever possible.”

North Yorkshire Police have seen figures dip and peak over five years.

A spokeswoman said: “We have recently secured £75,000 funding from the Home Office to improve the force’s medical suite in York.

“We are committed to enhancing and providing the best possible victim care available.”

Figures were not available for Northumbria Police, but Detective Chief Inspector Michael Barton said sexual offences rose from 989 in 2009 to 1,156 last year.

He believes this was because of the introduction of a specialised rape investigation team.

He said: “We take every reported allegation of a sexual offence very seriously, and all reports of sexual offences are fully investigated.”

Sue Hayles, manager of the Helen Britton Sexual Assault Referral Centre, based in North Ormesby, Middlesbrough, said the rising figures are just the tip of the iceberg.

She said: “A vast majority of people don’t report being raped or sexually assaulted, because they know the perpetrator and they fear reprisals.

“As well as referrals from the police, we also help victims who come to us directly. We are able to get them medically examined and collect evidence, which gives people the chance to decide what to do about their assault.

“This demonstrates our commitment to dealing with such incidents and ensuring justice for the victim.”