Police warning to domestic violence offenders ahead of Euro 2016

Cleveland Police is encouraging the public to get behind the tournament and enjoy the matches however, in the past national research has shown a clear link between alcohol consumption and domestic abuse, and officers will be using the football matches to highlight the support available for victims of domestic abuse.

Neighbourhood teams will distribute hard-hitting posters to raise awareness of the agencies available to access support for victims of domestic abuse. 

Chief Inspector Dave Sutherland said: “We know that sporting events and the better weather may encourage people to have a drink at home or whilst out watching the games and we don’t want to see abuse being committed as a result of that alcohol consumption.

“We take incidents of domestic abuse extremely seriously and we want to send out a clear message to offenders that we will not tolerate it.

“There is no excuse for any kind of abuse.

“The tournament should be an enjoyable experience for those visiting France and for those staying at home - without domestic abuse playing a part.

“Those involved in domestic abuse need to understand that it is a serious criminal offence and wherever possible we will put perpetrators before the courts.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland, Barry Coppinger, said: “Addressing domestic abuse forms an important part of my crime prevention role and I have a long-standing commitment to a Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy alongside my PCC colleagues in Durham and Northumbria.

“Since the Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy was adopted, we have been working together across Cleveland and the wider region to tackle domestic abuse by taking a partnership approach with police forces, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the prison service, probation, local authorities and other statutory and voluntary organisations.

“It is important that we unite to raise awareness of domestic abuse, to prevent violence and where it occurs, to help victims cope and recover.”

Victims of domestic violence or abuse are encouraged to seek help from support services. The National Domestic Violence Freephone 24 Hour Helpline can be called on 0808 2000 247.

Support agencies in the Cleveland area can be found on the Cleveland Police website at www.cleveland.police.uk/advice-information/DomesticAbuse.aspx