New domestic abuse powers brought in by Mid Wales police

Dyfed-Powys Police said it introduced new domestic violence protection notices and orders this week which will allow the force to provide immediate emergency protection by intervening in cases where police believe the victim may be at risk.

Detective Inspector Neil Jenkins, of the force public protection unit, said the notices would help police intervene even when there is not enough evidence to bring a criminal charge.

The notices will be handed out by senior police officers and can place certain prohibitions and restrictions - such as banning them from an address - upon offenders to safeguard victims.

DI Jenkins said: "The protection notices and orders will allow us to put in place protection for the victim in the immediate aftermath of a domestic violence incident. They give victims of domestic abuse the time, space and support to plan a safer future by keeping the perpetrator away.

"These power can bridge the gap in providing immediate emergency protection to the victim where there is an on-going risk of violence.

"If someone breaches a notice they will be subject to immediate arrest and can then be remanded in custody to appear before a court for a full order to be considered. A breach of an order can lead to a maximum fine of £5,000 or a two-month prison sentence."

DI Jenkins said before these orders, only those arrested or charged with an offence could be barred from their home by police through the use of bail conditions, or by the victim seeking an order in the civil courts.

The new measures give police the power to ban violent abusers from their homes for a length of time decided through the magistrates court between 14 and 28 days.

He added: "This will allow the victims to stay in their own homes rather than flee to a friend's home, or a refuge, to escape their abuser. This gives them vital respite and gives them time to consider their options. If abusers breach the order it could then lead to a prison sentence."