This study examines the influence of victim–offender relationships on judicial verdicts in rape cases handled by the Milimani Chief Magistrates Family Court in Kenya. Using content analysis of case files, the research explored how relational proximity whether the offender was a relative, acquaintance, or stranger affects case outcomes. The findings indicate that most offenders were known to their victims, consistent with national and international evidence. Cases involving known perpetrators faced greater prosecutorial and evidentiary challenges, leading to higher dismissal rates and lenient sentences. Conversely, offenders with prior criminal records were more likely to be convicted. These findings underscore the need for judicial training, forensic strengthening, and socio-legal reforms to enhance justice for survivors of sexual violence.
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