Domestic abuse arrests up in West Yorkshire

Hundreds of people have been arrested in just 16 days for domestic abuse offences across West Yorkshire.
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Officers arrested 670 people between November 25 and December 10 as part of 16 days of action - up by 25 per cent when compared to the same period last year.

West Yorkshire Police focussed its campaign on the impact of domestic abuse on children who may be victims of witness abuse.

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Specialist officers from the force undertook a number of special operations targeting known offenders for domestic abuse alongside its campaign to encourage victims and witnesses of abuse to come forward.

They made 670 arrests compared to 536 in the same period last year.

And the force said the increase in arrests is a result of victims feeling more confident in reporting incidents.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Craig, force lead for domestic abuse, said: “The increased number of arrests for domestic abuse offences compared to the same period last year can be attributed to victims and witnesses feeling increasingly confident in reporting incidents to the police and other agencies, alongside our continued commitment to safeguard those in our communities.

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“The concentrated activities of our teams over the 16 days has been in addition to the extensive work we do every day in tackling these issues and protecting the vulnerable, and we are continuing to tackle these often hidden issues, along with other safeguarding incidents throughout the festive period.”

The campaign comes as Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) publishes a progress report on the police response to domestic abuse.

Assistant Chief Constable Russ Foster said “Significant progress has been made in respect of tackling domestic abuse in West Yorkshire.

“The force has already reviewed the recommendations made by HMIC and has made progress in implementing changes to enhance the quality of service to victims of domestic abuse.

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“HMIC undertook an inspection during the summer and recognised that the force had made significant progress improving its ability and focus as an organisation, particularly in respect of identifying those who are vulnerable.”

He said every district in West Yorkshire has specialist domestic abuse teams to offer support to victims.

He added: “It is clear however that we need to build upon what is already in place and continue to develop this good work to enhance our quality of service to victims.

“Domestic abuse is a truly insidious crime which can not only ruin a victim’s quality of life, but those of children in the household.

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“We have specially trained officers working across the force in our specialist safeguarding units who take all reports seriously, deal with them sensitively and do everything possible to safeguard those who are vulnerable.”

Reports can be made to the police via 101, in an emergency always dial 999.

A full list of contacts for support can be found at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/help-advice.