Police and Civilian Investigator Experiences with Sexual Crimes Involving People with Intellectual Disabilities

This study explores how police officers and civilian investigators in Sweden describe their knowledge and experiences of handling sexual crimes involving people with intellectual disabilities—a group disproportionately affected by such crimes and often marginalized in justice processes. A thematic analysis was conducted based on qualitative research interviews with 12 informants, and analyzed through the lens of intersectional disability theory. The study identified three central themes: a) gut feeling as a tool, b) particularly underreported sexual crimes, and c) cooperation as a strategy. The findings show how institutional practices may reproduce or challenge legal marginalization and highlight gaps in competences, routines, and coordination. The study concludes that a disability-informed and intersectional approach within the justice system is needed to ensure equitable treatment, improve support, and uphold the legal rights of people with intellectual disability.