Action being taken to target domestic abuse suspects

We’re taking strong action to target domestic abuse suspects and protect victims from such awful crimes across the West Midlands.

As we approach the World Cup, we know people may feel more anxious and worried about being subjected to unacceptable physical or psychological abuse.

We won’t allow this to be the case, so we’re running a targeted operation which will see us act on information and seek out perpetrators.

Our specialist Public Protection Unit will be working alongside the Operational Support Unit and local policing areas to target those suspected of being involved in abuse.

The teams will be going out around the whole of the region to arrest them and then look to pursue prosecutions to seek justice for victims.

While football games do not cause domestic abuse, factors such as increased alcohol consumption and heightened emotions during matches can increase the risk.

Detective Inspector Charlie Sparks, from our Public Protection Unit, said: “Domestic abuse can devastate the lives of a partner, children and other loved ones – both now and in the future.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the football safely this summer without being in fear.

“It’s fine to be happy, frustrated or disappointed following a football match. But what’s not fine is for you to take your feelings out on your loved ones. No matter the score and no matter how you feel about it, there is absolutely no excuse for abuse.

“We never underestimate the impact of domestic abuse and it’s why we’re committed to supporting victims and catching perpetrators.”

The focused activity aims to build on the work our teams, including specialist officers, do day in, day out, to identify offenders and safeguard victims.

We have made major improvements specifically to how we support people suffering domestic abuse. This includes significant enhancements to how we handle incoming calls for service, and we now have independent domestic abuse specialists from local charities working across our 999 control rooms.

Remember, if you have experienced abuse of any kind then you don’t have to deal with it alone, and it’s never your fault. Call 999 if you are in danger, if threats have been made against you or if a crime is in progress.

If you need the police but are unable to talk due to your situation, you can dial 999 then press 55 instead of asking for the police: www.westmidlands.police.uk/contact/how-to-make-a-silent-999-call.

There are many support services, as well as the police, that can help you. Take a look at the ones in your local area: http://nefaproduction.wpengine.com/support/locations/

If you’re concerned about your behaviour or the behaviour of a loved one, contact the Respect Phoneline on 0808 802 4040 or head to their website.