Rise in Underage Suspects in NRW Rape Cases Sparks Concern

Recent data reveals a significant increase in children and teenagers suspected of rape in North Rhine-Westphalia.

In 2023, 31 children under 14 and 355 teenagers aged 14 to under 18 were suspected of rape in NRW, marking a sharp rise from previous years.
Compared to 2022, the number of child suspects increased by 55%, while teenage suspects rose by 18.3%.
Overall, nearly 3,200 rape cases were reported in NRW in 2023, with 3,244 victims identified.
Despite concerns, the majority of suspects continue to be adults, predominantly German nationals.
An analysis of suspects' first names showed no significant correlation with foreign origins, with common German names frequently appearing.