More than 300 suspected domestic abusers arrested in Northamptonshire since March
More than 300 people have been arrested in Northamptonshire as part of a police operation targeting suspected domestic abusers and safeguarding victims.
Northamptonshire Police launched Operation Red in March, with officers carrying out enforcement activity against suspects across the county.
Arrests have been made for offences including breaches of court orders, violence, stalking, harassment and coercive and controlling behaviour.
Offenders have also been arrested for breaching Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs), with suspects brought before the courts at the earliest opportunity.
Police say the operation is not solely focused on arrests, with safeguarding measures being put in place to protect victims while investigations continue.
These include strict bail conditions and Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs), while a number of offenders have been charged and remanded in custody.
Among recent cases was a man who was charged and remanded after breaching a non-molestation order designed to protect his victim.
In another incident, a member of the public contacted police after witnessing a woman being assaulted. Officers attended and arrested a man, who was subsequently charged and remanded.
Police also highlighted a case in which officers attended an address following reports of a disturbance.
Although the victim initially said a facial injury had been self-inflicted, officers identified signs which prompted further enquiries.
A man was subsequently arrested for assault and a DVPN was put in place to protect the victim while the investigation continued. The offender has since been sent to prison.
Chief Inspector Nathan Shepherd, of Northamptonshire Police's Response and Local Policing Team, said: “Making more than 300 arrests through Operation Red demonstrates our determination to relentlessly pursue domestic abuse offenders and protect those at risk.
“Domestic abuse can have a devastating impact on victims and their families, which is why we will continue to take robust action against those responsible while ensuring victims receive the safeguarding and support they need.
“Operation Red is about more than arrests. It is about holding perpetrators to account, using all available safeguarding powers to protect victims, and working alongside our partners to help people break free from abuse.”
Anyone affected by domestic abuse can contact Northamptonshire Police on 101, or call 999 if a crime is ongoing or there is an emergency.
Independent support is also available through Voice on 0300 303 1965.