Police to regularly report on intimate partner violence

Crime 100By Pepper Parr

December 5th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

In a media release the Halton Regional Police Service said: “Incidents of intimate partner violence threaten the very sense of safety and well-being that defines our region.

“Last year, our officers responded to more than 3,300 intimate partner domestic violence calls. We also know that intimate partner violence is overwhelmingly under-reported.   Statistics Canada estimates that more than 80 per cent of these incidents go unreported.

“Starting this week, the Halton Regional Police Service will periodically publish media releases that capture a de-identified incident of intimate partner violence in the community. No names. No residence details. We will, however, disclose the nature of the incident and what charges were laid as a result of an investigation. Each media release will also include key messaging that:

domestic violence

Intimate partner violence damages the very fabric of the society we live in.

i) reinforces that no one has the right to abuse another person;

ii) encourages victims and witnesses to contact the Halton Regional Police Service; and

iii) provides a comprehensive list of community resources for those affected.

“Our goals with this new approach to community-facing messaging are two-fold:

i) create an opportunity to connect others who are at-risk, or who may already be victims of intimate partner violence, with the resources and support they need and deserve; and

ii) heighten the awareness of the general public regarding how pervasive this violence is in our community.

“Intimate partner violence reaches across socio-economic, cultural, racial and class distinctions. It is a community problem that requires community engagement to address,” says Deputy Chief Jeff Hill. “It is impossible to fix what you can’t see, so we are broadening the conversation to clearly signal that this insidious violence is not solely an issue of concern to victims. If you see something, say something.”

Diane Beaulieu

Diane Beaulieu, Executive Director of Halton Women’s Place

Diane Beaulieu, Executive Director of Halton Women’s Place applauds the  Police Service for taking this bold step saying “An increase in public awareness will help de-stigmatize the issue of gender-based violence, and particularly violence against women. Every person in the community is entitled to feel safe in their home.”

“Given the prevalence of intimate partner violence in the region, it is imperative that all stakeholders shed light on this issue. In collaboration with our community partners, through ongoing education and shared information, the Halton Regional Police Service hopes to further prevent and reduce future victimization.”

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1 comment to Police to regularly report on intimate partner violence

  • Etts Price

    A bold step indeed, but certainly a timely and welcome one. Enlightenment, education and support hopefully will help to lessen these outlandishly high numbers. They shouldn’t be hidden or afraid to be talked about. Both sexes need this support. Good for our Police Force! Hopefully more will follow suit.