MORE than 50 cautions were handed out by Dorset Police last year to people charged with sexual offences.

The issue of dealing with sex offenders by way of a caution made national news this week when it was revealed that almost 8,000 sexual offenders, including 234 rapists, had been allowed to walk free over the past five years.

But in Dorset, where a total 159 cautions were handed out to sex offenders between 2000 and 2006, not one was given to a rapist.

Almost half went to men caught soliciting for sex, while cautions were also used in 38 cases of indecent assault on a female.

The nationwide figures have raised concern in certain corners of the media, but police officials say it is important to view them in context.

"It is surprising that no one has asked for the total number of arrests so that these figures can be put in some form of perspective," said a spokesman for Dorset Police.

"Cautions for sexual offences are issued in accordance with national guidance and only after careful consideration of the full circumstances.

"There would need to be evidence and a clear admission of guilt, whilst age, welfare, mental well being and the views of the victim would be taken into account."

The police have also been keen to point out that all those cautioned still get a permanent criminal record and are listed on the Sex Offenders Register.

Other offences for which cautions were given included 10 cases of indecent assault on a male, 15 for under-age sex and one case of sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder.