Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Police warn of domestic abuse hike at Christmas
POLICE in Northern Ireland have warned of a potential spike in domestic abuse over Christmas.
PSNI statistics have revealed officers dealt with a call every 16 minutes last December and January.
As part of their Tis the Season campaign, officers will be raising awareness of the signs of domestic abuse and urging potential victims to come forward.
Police said last Christmas Day alone, 97 incidents and 65 crimes were reported to them.
On New Year’s Day 2022, police received reports of 161 incidents and 100 crimes of domestic abuse, an increase of 17 on 2021.
Det Supt Lindsay Fisher said: “Specialist domestic abuse detectives will be available 24 hours a day during the festive period and will treat all reports seriously.
“We work with a range of other agencies to ensure that you will receive support to help you break away from the cycle of abuse. There is no excuse for abuse. You are not to blame, the abuser is 100% responsible.”
Police also appealed to families and pals to keep an eye out for signs that someone may be a victim.
The officer added: “If you have concerns that a family member, a friend or a colleague is a victim of domestic abuse, please contact us.”