Police plan to name suspects of domestic abuse

A police force said it has plans to publicly name those wanted for questioning in relation to domestic abuse as part of a Christmas campaign.

Northamptonshire Police said it saw an increase in incidents of domestic abuse over the festive season.

As part of the awareness campaign, officers have worked through a list of people they want to speak to in connection to high harm domestic abuse and will publish the names of those who do not engage.

Det Insp Pete Ticehurst, from the force's Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit, said officers want families to have a "safe and peaceful" Christmas.

"The tactic of publicising the most wanted offenders has worked very successfully in the past, with many handing themselves in," Det Insp Ticehurst added.

"Previously, some offenders expressed discomfort about having their photos circulated via social media or in the local press, so I strongly urge those who don't want their name and photo circulated to voluntarily hand themselves in for questioning now, so their details can be removed from the list."

Police will also be checking on victims who have protection measures in place to make sure they were safe.

Checks will also be made on offenders to make sure they were following any bail or court conditions.

Det Insp Ticehurst said: "No-one should have the fear of abuse or violence hanging over them, which is why we are warning domestic abusers to think about and change their behaviour, or we will come after them.

"There is no justification for anyone to be violent, abusive, or controlling to their loved ones. We aim to do everything in our power to protect victims."

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