Sarah Bennett, Katrina Carr
Every reported sexual offence deserves the very best evidenced policing response. The Queensland Police Service (QPS), Specialist Investigation Training Unit developed the comprehensive two-week Investigating Sexual Assault, Corroborating and Understanding Relationship Evidence (ISACURE) course. ISACURE targets three core themes: knowledge of sexual offending, victim-oriented practice, and evidence-based investigative skills. Through an EBP research partnership, the QPS and The University of Queensland tested how training impacted outcomes including arrests, withdrawals and officer wellbeing. Results demonstrate how EBP training and evaluation is improving service to survivors of sexual offences and where further research is needed.
Biography
Dr Sarah Bennett’s research aims to advance the role of policing, training and social interventions in improving outcomes for victims, offenders, and communities through applied rigorous research methods. Sarah has significant expertise in developing partnerships with criminal justice stakeholders to facilitate measurable and meaningful research outcomes.
Detective Sergeant Katrina Carr has 29 years with the Qld Police Service. As lead facilitator, and co-developer of the Investigating Sexual Assault – Corroborating and Understanding Relationship Evidence (ISACURE) program, Carr’s training and research is enhancing the QPS response to victims of sexual assault.