New protection orders for victims of domestic abuse

Dyfed Powys Police will introduce new powers on Monday 19th May 2014 to help better protect victims of domestic abuse.

Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders are new powers that allow the Police to provide immediate emergency protection by intervening in cases where police believe a victim may be at risk from violence or are worried about violent behaviour within a household, but do not have enough evidence to bring a criminal charge.

These notices are issued by senior police officers and can place certain prohibitions and restrictions upon offenders to safeguard victims. Detective Inspector Neil Jenkins, of Dyfed Powys Police Public Protection Unit, said: “The Protection Notices and Orders will allow us to put in place protection for the victim in the immediate aftermath of a domestic violence incident. They give victims of domestic abuse the time, space and support to plan a safer future, by keeping the perpetrator away.”

“These powers can bridge the gap in providing immediate emergency protection to the victim where there is an on-going risk of violence.If someone breaches a notice they will be subject to immediate arrest and can then be remanded in custody to appear before a court for a full order to be considered. A breach of an order can lead to a maximum fine of £5,000 or a two month prison sentence.To find out more about the new powers please see the attached leaflet.

Background:

Domestic Violence Protection Notice and Domestic Violence Protection Orders are new powers introduced by the Crime and Security Act 2010.

Before these orders, only those arrested or charged with an offence could be barred from their home by police through the use of bail conditions , or by the victim seeking an order in the civil courts. The new measures give police the power to ban violent abusers from their homes for a length of time decided through the magistrates’ court (between 14 and 28 days), allowing the victims to stay in their own homes rather than flee to a friend’s home, or a refuge, to escape their abuser.

This gives them vital respite and gives them time to consider their options. If abusers breach the Order it could then lead to a prison sentence.

Within 48 hours of a DVPN being issued, there is a hearing in the Magistrates’ court where the Notice is potentially converted to an Order and the length of the order is determined.