Victims of repeated domestic abuse and their families will be offered extra support as Cumbria police launches the next stage of an operation.
Operation Dacrre was launched to target repeat domestic abuse offenders, while offering additional support to victims and their families.
Over the last year, police officers have analysed data to identify prolific offenders and individuals in need of additional safeguarding and support.
During the pandemic police saw a marked increase in repeat offending linked to domestic abuse with over 900 crimes recorded against 111 victims.
Dedicated, specially trained officers have been deployed under Operation Dacrre to make visits to those identified as repeat offenders and their victims.
Victims will be provided with a consistent, single point of contact, to report crimes and concerns to.
Officers will assess safeguarding and safety planning to ensure plans remain comprehensive and affective.
Support services and partner agencies will work in partnership with officers to provide victims with tailored support.
To help address their offending and manage their behaviour, offenders will be risk assessed and allocated to appropriate offender management operations and initiatives.
Offenders will also be assigned officers to contact should they need support to help stop their offending.
Team lead, Detective Sergeant Deborah Story said: “Every day we see the damage domestic abuse brings upon communities, individuals and families.
“The pandemic has created unprecedented times and brought about new challenges for police and victims alike.
“While those facing domestic abuse were allowed to flee their home during lockdowns, circumstances meant it was not always as straight forward as that.
“Now, with restrictions easing, we need to ensure there are no physical or perceived barriers for victims in taking their next positive step forward.
“We also need to work with offenders, to address their behaviour and stop the cycle of repeat offending
“Offenders should expect a knock at their door from us imminently.
“Having repeatedly offended, we know who they are, and we’ll be monitoring them very closely.
“Domestic abuse is a crime and it will not be tolerated”.
- If you have been the victim of domestic abuse, or are concerned for someone who is, you can report this in the safety of your local police station, online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
- You can access support services regardless of if you have reported a crime to the police. To access support services independently, contact Victim Support 24/7 on 0808 1689 111 or visit the Cumbria Together website www.cumbriatogether.com
