Dorset Police Target Domestic Abuse
12 December 2013, 07:15
Over the festive period, Dorset Police will be using additional specially trained officers dedicated to victims of domestic abuse.
From 12 December officers will be conducting extra reassurance visits to high risk victims to ensure they continue to be safe.
Police will be targeting serial perpetrators of domestic abuse and ensuring effective safeguarding measures are put in place in relation to children and vulnerable adults.
Known offenders of domestic abuse can expect to receive a police visit to ensure they are abiding by any special conditions or court orders.
Along with robust monitoring, officers will also be providing a response to any reported incidents.
Inspector Steve Thorpe said:
"We are determined to support victims in reporting these crimes, and make sure those who inflict abuse are brought to justice. This is a Force priority.
"Along with our own experienced and specially trained officers who investigate these offences, we also work in close partnership with other support agencies who can also offer support, advice and guidance."
Dorset Police receives on average 700 reports of domestic abuse per month across the county.
Reported incidents of domestic abuse tend to increase over the Christmas and New Year period.
Steve Thorpe continued:
"If you commit an act of domestic abuse against your partner, expect to be arrested, dealt with robustly and go through the Criminal Justice System if appropriate. Domestic abuse offences can attract significant custodial sentences.
"Dorset Police is committed to preventing these offences developing into more serious violent crimes. Across the UK two women a week and one man every 17 days are killed by their partner or former partner.
"Alcohol can play a part in domestic abuse. Please ensure you do not become a victim or a perpetrator as the result of excessive drinking.
"Our officers want children and families throughout Dorset to be able to enjoy Christmas free from the fear of domestic abuse.
"I strongly encourage anybody suffering from this awful crime to report it and seek help."
The public can continue to see the Dorset Police Countdown to Christmas updates by visiting www.dorset.police.uk or by following Dorset Police on Twitter @dorsetpolice.
The campaign is using the hashtag #DPXmasCountdown.
For more information on support services available throughout Dorset visit http://www.dorsetforyou.com/dvahelp
National Support for Victims:
-National DV Helpline (24 hour) 0808 2000247
-National Men's Advice Line (for male victims) 0808 8010327
-Local Support for victims Bournemouth Outreach Service 01202 547641
-Bournemouth 24 hour helpline 01202 547755
-Poole Outreach Service 01202 710777
-Poole 24 hour helpline 01202 748488
-You First (Dorset County Outreach) 0800 0325204
-West Dorset Women's Refuge 01305 262444 .
-Childline (for children) 0800 1111