Police make 29 arrests for rape, assault and stalking in huge crackdown
A number of people have been arrested
Police have made 29 arrests for a slew of offences including rape, assault, stalking and harassment, in a major crackdown on domestic violence this week.
The arrests have been made for a range of offences including rape, assault, controlling and coercive behaviour, criminal damage, stalking, harassment, and breach of existing orders.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanne Williams, Rochdale’s Vulnerability Lead said: “Domestic abuse is a crime that thrives in silence and isolation, it has devastating and lasting impacts on individuals and families which is why it remains a top priority for us in Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
"Our job, year-round and not just during a week of action, is targeting perpetrators of domestic abuse to keep people safe from harm.
As part of Operation Magnolia, GMP’s force-wide domestic abuse campaign, officers have been targeting and arresting suspected perpetrators of domestic abuse, supporting victims and survivors, and engaging with the community, says the force.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanne Williams added: “We have utilised this week of action to highlight the initiatives and mechanisms in place across Rochdale to protect and help victims of domestic abuse.
“Victims should know they are not to blame for what is happening to them. It’s never their fault.
“We recognise it can be hard reporting incidents of this nature, and it may not always be safe to do so, but there are organisations that you can contact regardless of whether you have reported the crime to the police or not.
“We remain resolute in our determination to enhance our approach to domestic abuse; we will always be here to support those affected and help provide a voice for victims who may feel isolated or unheard.
“If you, or someone you know are a victim or survivor of domestic abuse, rape or sexual violence, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it the police by calling 101 or report online using the online report tool on our website: www.gmp.police.uk
“Always dial 999 in an emergency.
“Greater Manchester Police will support you should you wish to report a crime or information to us. Likewise, our officers can also refer you to support tailored to your needs should you decide not to report it to us directly.
“Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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GMP has also worked in partnership with a number of partners including The Langley Children’s Centre, victim support services, Independent Domestic Violence Advisors, Andy’s Man Club, Hopwood Hall College, and Rochdale Boroughwide Housing.
Throughout the week, local police officers and staff have received additional training in responding to and investigating domestic abuse cases, ensuring a victim-centred approach.
This has included help from Rochdale Connections Trust on the Free from Harm course, which aims to help participants gain more knowledge about domestic abuse, helping them to feel empowered and to feel safer. Help has also been given from CARA – Cautioning and Relationship Abuse, which is an innovative, award-winning early intervention for domestic abuse offenders who have received a conditional caution.
Helplines
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]
- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.