RAPE, sexual assault, voyeurism are among the horrendous sexual offences which residents of care establishments have fallen victim to.

In many cases, the crimes have gone unpunished because of “evidential difficulties” or a prosecution being prevented due to the suspect being too ill.

The details have been released through a Freedom of Information request to West Yorkshire Police which shows nearly 200 residents of care establishments across the region, including nursing homes, were victims of sexual offences between the start of 2018 and the end of 2021.

Twenty five victims were staff members.

Out of 215 offences, just one resulted in a charge or summons, while 21 cases remain ongoing. Nobody was brought to justice in relation to 151 offences due to the suspect being too ill to be prosecuted or difficulties with evidence.

In some cases, action was undertaken by another body or agency.

As part of its response, West Yorkshire Police said: “Crimes relating to sexual offences are taken very seriously by West Yorkshire Police. Specially trained officers are responsible for the investigation of these offences and are situated within both District Safeguarding Units and Protective Services (Crime), a specialist department which deals with complex investigations.

"All investigations involving victims of sexual offences, regardless of the age of the person responsible, are dealt within a multi-agency setting, involving our statutory safeguarding partners. This approach allows not only for an effective investigation but ensures appropriate safeguarding measures are considered for any person deemed to be at risk.

“West Yorkshire Police strives to ensure all victims receive the best possible service and care from all officers and staff. All victims are offered appropriate specialist after care support services to ensure they receive support throughout the criminal justice process.”

A spokesperson for the Care Quality Commission said allegations of sexual offences and assaults are taken “very seriously” and it works closely with local authorities.

The spokesperson added: “Any information we receive help us to decide when and where to inspect, and if we find patients are at risk of harm, we can take action in line with our regulatory powers.

“Anyone who has concerns about a service providing health and social care should inform CQC.”