Female Genital Mutilation A Police Perspective DC Helen Tonks

Aims and Objectives Overview of legislation Identify and understand issues with investigations

Legislation Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 It is an offence for a person to excise, infibulate or otherwise mutilate the whole or any part of a girls labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris either in the UK (excluding Scotland) or to arrange for a female to be taken abroad for the purpose of FGM

Offences Carrying out the act itself Assisting girl to mutilate her own genitalia Assisting a non-UK person to mutilate overseas a girls genitalia All of the above include aid, abet, counsel or procure

An act is relevant act of FGM if it is done in relation to a UK National OR Permanent UK resident These offences extend to any act done outside of the UK by a UK National or permanent UK resident

Approved persons Registered Medical Practitioner Registered Midwife or person undergoing a course of training with a view to becoming a practitioner or midwife

Issues Safeguarding Assumptions Lack of trust Lack of education Lack of knowledge within professionals Proof of date of offence (ie when procedure carried out) Physical signs Disclosure

Any questions?