Crackdown on domestic abuse in Ayrshire

Mar 5 2010 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

HUNDREDS of suspected violent partners have been arrested in just eight weeks.

And domestic abusers are being warned by police: “The next knock at the door could be us.”

The stern message comes as they continue a huge crackdown on domestic abuse.

Since January 1, more than 450 people accused of the crime have been arrested.

It includes 179 people directly apprehended for alleged domestic abuse offences.

The other arrests came when police executed more than 270 outstanding warrants for unrelated offences.

Officers trawled a database which records all domestic abuse allegations to arrest people with outstanding warrants for other crimes.

The warrants were for a range of offences, including theft and breach of the peace.

Detective Inspector Scott McClelland is delighted at the success of the initiative.

He said: “The removal of more than 450 potential domestic abusers from Ayrshire’s streets is a hugely positive step.

“Recent campaigns are having an effect, but there is undoubtedly a small minority who continue to behave abhorrently.”

He continued: “I can assure the public that local officers will continue to robustly pursue those who cause their partner’s mental and physical suffering.

“This is not a crime exclusive to women and men can be targeted too. I would urge any men or women who suffer domestic abuse to contact their local police office.”

DI McLelland explained that it’s not just fresh cases the police are targeting.

He said: “A dedicated team of officers is revisiting domestic abuse enquiries dating back to 2006 where the suspect has not been traced. Targeting domestic abuse is a priority for Strathclyde Police, not a short-term initiative.

“Ayrshire offenders are warned that the next knock at your door could be from a police officer.”