Devon and Cornwall Police arrest 65 people in domestic abuse crackdown

A force-wide day of action has led to the arrest of 65 individuals across Devon and Cornwall on suspicion of domestic abuse offences, as police intensify efforts to tackle one of the region’s most serious and often hidden crimes.

The coordinated operation, which took place on Tuesday, April 8th, saw officers target suspects using intelligence-led tactics. Arrests were made across the two counties, with 21 in Cornwall, 20 in Devon, 16 in South Devon, and eight in Plymouth.

Domestic abuse is defined as a pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading or violent behaviour, often, but not exclusively, committed by a partner or ex-partner. The abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual or financial, and frequently remains unreported due to fear, coercion, or isolation.

Acting Superintendent Tom Cunningham, who led the initiative, said the operation aimed to directly disrupt dangerous behaviour and protect victims: “This was a successful day with the use of targeted intelligence to arrest those we suspect of being perpetrators of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is often a hidden and under-reported crime, with victims suffering in silence. Every arrest carried out is a positive intervention which we hope makes a home safer and holds offenders to account.”

Cunningham reiterated that Devon and Cornwall Police are committed to taking action against all reports of domestic abuse and urged victims to come forward, whether to the police or a third-party support service.

The region’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez, praised the force’s decisive action and commended the victims who have stepped forward: “I applaud the efforts of police for cracking down on despicable perpetrators of domestic abuse during the day of action, and I also commend the bravery of victims. Any form of abuse is unacceptable, especially in people’s homes where they have every right to feel safe. We must not stand by and allow a culture where violence and abuse can thrive.”

Commissioner Hernandez reaffirmed her commitment to developing “innovative, disruptive and radical solutions” to prevent abuse and provide ongoing support for survivors and their families.

According to national statistics, an estimated 2.1 million adults in the UK experienced domestic abuse in the last year alone. Devon and Cornwall Police have made tackling this issue a top priority, with focused operations and investments in both enforcement and victim support services.

Victims or witnesses of domestic abuse are encouraged to report incidents via the Devon & Cornwall Police website: Report Domestic Abuse or by calling 101 (or 999 in an emergency). Additional resources and confidential help can be accessed at www.domesticabusehelp.co.uk.

“We hope the high number of arrests sends a clear message: if you commit domestic abuse, we will find you, and we will take action,” said Acting Superintendent Cunningham.