New powers to cut domestic violence

Courts will be given new powers to deal with the growing threat of domestic violence — as figures reveal a case is reported to Greater Manchester Police every eight minutes.

From next month courts can grant restraining orders against suspected stalkers or violent partners — even after they have been acquitted of an offence, if they are still believed to be a threat.

Courts have previously only been able to issue the orders in limited circumstances — where the defendant has been convicted of harassment or putting someone in fear of violence.

It has forced many accusers to go through civil courts to acquire an injunction.

Breaking the terms of a restraining order, which is designed to prevent people from interfering with a complainant and can ban them from visiting their home or workplace, is a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison.

Ministers believe the change will improve the level of protection for all victims of violence and harassment.

The move was confirmed after figures released to Parliament revealed there were 64,156 incidents of domestic violence reported to Greater Manchester Police in 2007/8 equivalent of one case every eight minutes.

Of the total, 8,924 arrests were made.

Home Office Minister Lord West said: “Domestic violence is a devastating crime which impacts across all communities.

“The additional powers announced today will also help victims in need of immediate protection and spare them the need to take separate civil action.”