Cautions given for sex offences

More than 60 sex offenders were cautioned by Gloucestershire Police between 2002 and 2006, rather than being prosecuted in court.

A third were for sexual assault on a female aged 13 or over, and one person was cautioned for sexual assault on a girl under 13.

One person received a caution for incest.

The force said a caution was not a "let-off", as it still attracts a criminal record.

It is a clear admission of guilt, a spokesman added.

'Careful thought'

There is national guidance around the use of cautions, the police force said, which are given after "careful consideration" of all circumstances.

The views of the victim are one factor which is taken into account.

Terrence Grange, ACPO lead for sexual offences and Chief Constable of Dyfed Powys Police, added: "Every decision made to prosecute or issue a caution is reached after very careful thought and consideration.

"Every incident will be treated on its own merit, taking into account the circumstances of the incident and the people involved.

"A caution will only be given if it is agreed to be the most appropriate course of action."