Proactive domestic abuse operation makes first arrests

Two people were arrested on the first day of new proactive operation by Bedfordshire Police targeting perpetrators of domestic abuse.

On Monday (17 April) the force welcomed the return of Op Cadbury, the force’s proactive response to policing domestic abuse offenders.

The operation sees officers check on high risk offenders, carry our priority arrests and check conditions of civil orders like domestic violence protection orders.

The force’s dedicated domestic abuse team, Emerald, run the operation, with two people arrested for separate incidents for breach of conditions on its first day.

As well as the perpetrator focus, measures have been put in place to improve services for victims. Monday also saw the launch of WEPROTECT, an instant victim referral app for legal advice in a bid to improve support and safeguarding of victims.

The project is a partnership between the force and the Domestic Abuse Alliance, which offers specialist legal support. Some 52 victims have been referred to the app already since it launched this week.

It has also been one month since the Rapid Video Response (RVR) pilot went live in Bedfordshire, which enables non-emergency victims of domestic abuse to speak to a specialist officer via video link rather than a call handler.

Since the launch of RVR, around 20 victims have been safeguarded and a number of them have praised the speed and effectiveness of the new system.

One victim highlighted that she preferred the video chat as she was able to get the support she needed, without officers coming to her home and causing concern for her children.

Detective Chief Inspector Emma Pitts, force lead for Emerald, said: “Perpetrators of domestic abuse have no place in our society and as a force we are committed to bringing them to justice. Domestic abuse remains an absolute priority for us.

“In March we dealt with more than 1,100 incidents of domestic abuse, which was an increase from February, demonstrating the need for us to continue our drive and work in this area.

“We know that people are sadly living with abuse and in fear. We want to help provide the confidence for people to walk away by demonstrating the work we are doing and the support available.

“Whether you are experiencing abuse yourself, or you are worried for someone you know, there is always help available.”

Anyone wishing to report domestic abuse can get in touch with the police on 101 or by visiting our online reporting centre. Always call 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, you can call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.