Police to crack down on domestic violence during the new year period

A select group of officers in Littlehampton and the surrounding area, equipped with special “body-worn” video cameras, are taking part in Operation Cranberry, targeting instances of domestic violence.

Detective Sergeant Daniel Dugan, of Sussex Police’s specialist crime directorate, said: “This will be the third year we have operated these force-wide patrols and we anticipate certain days will be particularly busy with calls for help, such as Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

“Victims can be assaulted by their partners or other family members and many of the incidents we have attended in the past have been extremely violent.

“The increase over this period is often down to higher alcohol consumption, combined with families spending more time than usual with each other.

“Relationships which are potentially abusive may come to a head at this time.

“Early attendance by police officers using video cameras increases the chance of gaining quality evidence, not just relying on the victim’s word against their abuser.”

Littlehampton woman Malaika Cohen, author of the book Shackles: Overcoming Domestic Abuse, is trying to encourage those living in fear to walk away from the violence.

The mother-of-three said: “Domestic abuse is horrible. Christmas and new year is always worse, because of the financial strain.

“It becomes a sense of fear and isolation that, once sucked into, is very difficult to escape from.

“It took me many years to build up the courage to leave my abusive relationship. It wasn’t easy to do.

“It’s very hard to let go because you’re made to feel so small. Your confidence is knocked immensely.”

During the campaign officers work a dedicated shift for incidents of domestic abuse, which is their sole priority over all other types of policing incidents.

A specialist team of investigators will also be used during the operation to conduct follow-up enquiries relating to reported domestic violence.

Officers working on the operation are kept up to date by intelligence briefings about victims who may be particularly vulnerable, and about specific offenders who may pose a higher risk.

Last year, police across Sussex responded to 758 incidents of reported domestic abuse over the festive period.

Det Sgt Dugan added; “It is a sad reality that some people experience abuse repeatedly.

“Behind the statistics are personal tales of fear and often violence. Sussex Police will continue to treat all domestic abuse incidents as a priority and to work closely with other agencies to keep victims safe.”

Although the majority of domestic abuse occurs against women, nearly one in five of the victims are male.

Police are urging all those suffering from domestic violence to contact them on 101 or, in emergencies, 999.

There are many organisations across the area that offer support and advice to victims of abuse.

RISE runs a county-wide helpline on 01273 622822. The Worth Services, an independent domestic abuse advisory, also cover the district and can be contacted on 07834 968539 or at www.worthservices.org

Further detailed information and advice is also available via the Sussex Police website at www.sussex.police.uk/domestic-abuse