Reports of domestic abuse crimes in Suffolk fall by 17%, only 8% lead to charges

Why it matters: Domestic abuse affects thousands of families across Suffolk, with police figures showing more than 20 incidents are reported each day on average.

By the numbers:

• 7,612 domestic abuse crimes recorded in Suffolk (2022-23)

• 17% decrease from the previous year

• 8% of cases resulted in charges

• Three domestic homicides were recorded in Suffolk between 2021-23

The national picture:

• 851,062 domestic abuse crimes recorded across England and Wales

• 2.3 million people are estimated to have experienced domestic abuse

• 353 domestic homicides recorded nationally

• 65% of homicide victims were women

New protection measures: The government is introducing new domestic abuse protection notices and orders (DAPNs and DAPOs) that will:

• Have no time limit, unlike current 28-day restrictions

• Cover all forms of domestic abuse

• Allow friends and family to apply on the victims' behalf

• Include exclusion zones

• Require abusers to attend behaviour change programmes

• Carry up to five-year prison sentences for breaches

What they're saying: Sarika Seshadi, head of research at Women's Aid, said: "With over one in four women over 16 experiencing domestic abuse in their lifetime, and at least one woman being killed by her current or former male partner a week, it is clear that urgent action towards domestic abuse needs to be taken."

Francesca Easter is a partner at local law firm Ellisons  and specialises in family law. She has seen firsthand the impact that domestic abuse can have on victims and the challenges they face when seeking support. She welcomes the DAPN and DAPO trials but highlights the importance of "proper funding and enforcement."

Domestic abuse remains a devastating issue for countless families across Suffolk, and many victims still face huge challenges in coming forward and being supported.

The fact that only 8% of cases lead to charges is deeply concerning, but the introduction of trials for Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders is a positive step.

However, it’s essential that there’s proper funding and enforcement if DAPNs and DAPOs are going to make a meaningful impact.

What's next: The new protection orders will be trialled in several areas, including Greater Manchester and three London boroughs, before being rolled out nationally, including in Suffolk.

The bottom line: While reported domestic abuse crimes have decreased in Suffolk, low prosecution rates remain a concern as new measures are introduced to strengthen victim protection.