VIOLENT men have been warned that action will be taken to stop them abusing their partners.
It comes as part of Northumbria Police’s latest initiative, Are You Walking On Eggshells?
It states: “If you’re an abuser, we will take action against you and if you commit a criminal offence you can be arrested, even if your victim does not want you to be arrested.
“Officers will collect evidence at the crime scene, take witness statements, photograph injuries, obtain forensic evidence and use CCTV footage.
“They can also use their own notes as evidence in court.
“Your victim’s past medical records and history of previous incidents can also be used in court.
“Northumbria Police will do everything in its power to build the best possible case against you in court.”
Detective Chief Inspector Gary Hetherington, from the force’s Protecting Vulnerable People unit, said: “We make no apologies for taking a tough stance against domestic abuse.
“We would remind people that police and a range of partner agencies are working round the clock to help victims and we’d always encourage people to report what is happening so action can be taken.”
The launch of the campaign, which took place in a women’s refuge on Wearside, was attended by Chief Constable Sue Sim and newly-elected Police Crime Commissioner Vera Baird.
Mrs Sim said: “Whatever form domestic abuse takes, it’s rarely a one-off incident and usually involves a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour which can be physical, psychological, sexual, financial or emotional.
“It happens in every part of our communities regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality, wealth and geography and is not just between partners but can be between family members.
“This campaign sends out a clear message that there is help and support available for those suffering, but it also reinforces the fact that those who commit this crime will have to deal with the consequences of their actions.”
Between August 1, 2011, and July 31,last year, there were 27,066 incidents in the Northumbria Police area involving domestic abuse.
If you are an abuser or have abused in the past and recognise you need help to change your behaviour, call the Respect helpline on 0845 122 8609
Twitter: @Monica_Turnbull
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