65 Arrested in One Day Across Devon and Cornwall in Domestic Abuse Crackdown

Police carry out targeted day of action across the region

Devon and Cornwall Police arrested 65 people on Tuesday 8th April as part of a focused operation targeting those suspected of domestic abuse offences.

The day of action was carried out using targeted intelligence across the force area and aimed to intervene in ongoing domestic abuse cases.

Arrests by area

The force confirmed that Cornwall saw 21 arrests, Devon 20, South Devon 16 and Plymouth eight.

Domestic abuse is defined as an incident or pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour, including sexual violence, in most cases by a partner or ex-partner, but also by a family member or carer.

Police say victims often suffer in silence

Acting Superintendent Tom Cunningham, who led the operation, said:

“This was a successful day with the use of targeted intelligence to arrest those we suspect of being perpetrators of domestic abuse.

“Domestic abuse is often a hidden and under reported crime with those victims often suffering in silence.

“Every arrest carried out is a positive intervention which we hope will see a home made safer and those perpetrating domestic abuse brought to justice. We are committed to taking action against all reports of domestic abuse and, where the evidence exists, will ensure offenders are charged to court.

“My hope is the large number of arrests will give confidence to victims to come forward and report matters to us or to a third party so action can be taken to safeguard a victim and their family.”

Commissioner welcomes police action

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez welcomed the arrests and praised the bravery of those affected.

“I applaud the efforts of police for cracking down on despicable perpetrators of domestic abuse during the day of action, and I also commend the bravery of the victims who found the courage to report their behaviour to the police.

“I hope the arrests will give people the confidence to report incidents and help Devon & Cornwall Police to bring perpetrators to justice.

“Any form of abuse is unacceptable, especially in peoples’ homes where they have every right to feel safe. We must not stand by and allow a culture where violence and abuse can thrive, and we owe it to our society to unite against the perpetrators of violence.

“I am committed to exploring innovative, disruptive and radical solutions to stamp out these kind of behaviours, and ensure that victims and their families have access to the resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives.”

How to report domestic abuse

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, you can report it via the Devon & Cornwall Police website.

Further information and support is also available at www.domesticabusehelp.co.uk.