MORE than one in three revenge porn cases reported to Lancashire Constabulary were dropped by victims despite a suspect being identified in the past three years.

The offence of disclosing private sexual photographs and films with intent to cause distress – so-called "revenge porn" – came into force in April 2015 and carries a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment in England and Wales.

It was extended in June 2021 to include threats to share intimate images.

Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request reveal Lancashire Police recorded 995 revenge porn crimes between 2018 and 2021 – the latest period for which the force provided figures.

Of those, at least 361, 36.3 per cent, were closed because the alleged victim did not support further police action despite a suspect being identified – above the national average of 35 per cent.

A further 71 cases, 7.1 per cent, with no clear suspect were also dropped by victims, meaning at least 43.4 per cent saw complainants withdraw their support for investigation.

Revenge porn crimes peaked last year at Lancashire Constabulary when they recorded 366 offences. This was up from 199 in 2020.

In Lancashire, 2.2 per cent between 2018 and the end of 2021 resulted in a suspect being charged or summoned.

Figures relate to outcomes at the time of the FOI response and some cases may still be under investigation.

Deputy Chief Constable Ian Critchley, lead for child protection at the National Police Chiefs’ Council, said: “Police take the disclosure of private or intimate images – sometimes referred to as ‘revenge porn’ – very seriously.

“We will pursue all lines of inquiry and prosecute people wherever appropriate.

“We recognise that going through the criminal justice system can be very stressful for victims, leading to some victims withdrawing from the process.

“We are working closely with partners throughout the system to ensure that victims have the confidence to report crimes and that they receive appropriate support at every stage.”