Police charge more than 130 people with domestic abuse through 'evidence-led prosecutions' over last year

West Midlands Police said 'evidence led prosecutions' led to 40 convictions over last 12 months

A police team focused on supporting domestic abuse victims have successfully secured more than 40 convictions and charged 132 people in the last 12 months through evidence-led prosecutions.

Evidence led prosecutions are when victims are reluctant to pursue complaints against violent partners or other family members out of fear. Detectives then look at ways to get them justice through other evidence.

The adult investigations team have worked tirelessly supporting victims through a new strategy that puts victims and their families first during some of the hardest times of their lives. From the moment a victim is spoken to, evidence gathering is at the forefront of every officer and staff members mind to ensure opportunities are not missed to prosecute offenders, police said.

READ MORE: Police probing road-rage attack after 'knifeman followed traumatised family for 30 minutes'

In July, police secured a conviction against a domestic abuser through CCTV, witness statements and body worn footage. After hearing the case against him, the 21-year-old pleaded guilty and he was convicted of coercive control, assault, attempted wounding and driving offences.

Det Chief Insp Matt Underwood, from the force’s Public Protection Unit, said: “Putting victims first is at the very heart of why we do this job. We do not underestimate the lasting and devastating impact domestic abuse has on victims’ lives. We are committed to getting victims justice even when it’s too hard for them to pursue a complaint.

“We will look at different ways to get justice for victims’ through other elements of evidence. I hope this sends a clear message to domestic abusers, that we will do everything we can to get justice for victims’ even if support is withdrawn, we will act on all of the evidence we have to prosecute domestic abusers.” To report domestic abuse or for more information visit - How to report domestic abuse | West Midlands Police

Stay up to date with the very latest from your Birmingham or West Midlands street or neighbourhood with our Birmingham News Email Updates