The “Single-Interview” Principle in Cases of Sexual Offences Against Minors in China

Abstract

Cases of sexual offenses against minors are egregious in nature, and the high incidence of such crimes in recent years has posed severe challenges to judicial practice. In response to practical needs, the“single-interview”principle has emerged. Rooted in judicial practice with Chinese characteristics, this principle nonetheless encounters numerous difficulties in its implementation, particularly with respect to the choice of the prosecutorial–police relationship model and the boundaries of prosecutorial early intervention. Divergent views in practice have resulted in obstacles to effectively obtaining statements and protecting minor victims through this principle. Starting from the normative foundations of the“single-interview”principle, this article analyzes the practical deficiencies in the choice of prosecutorial–police relationship models and the boundaries of prosecutorial early intervention in practice. On this basis, it clarifies the grounds for selecting an appropriate prosecutorial–police relationship model, proposes directions for practical optimization, delineates the applicable boundaries of prosecutorial early intervention, and offers a clear and feasible outlook for future development.