By JONATHON HOWARD
DOMESTIC violence is on the rise across Warwick and residents turning a blind eye could be putting victims at greater risk.
Shocking statistics reveal an average of one domestic violence case was being reported to Warwick police every day – but more could be unreported.
The figure has continued to grow throughout the past year and Warwick police have used this month, Domestic Violence Awareness month, to call for residents to act.
It’s a sad truth that domestic violence victims often suffer in silence.
Both women and men can be manipulated or controlled by their friend, partner or family member through physical or psychological torment.
However, the simple act of a resident phoning police and expressing concern for their neighbours’ wellbeing could help free that person from the abuse.
“The days of thinking ‘it’s none of my business’ are long gone,” Warwick police Crime Prevention Officer, Wendy Tamblyn, said.
“We’re asking residents, who hear a domestic incident in the home or in public place, to ‘report it, don’t regret it’ – report it before it’s too late.”
Mrs Tamblyn said amendments to the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act were made in 2012 to an updated definition of abuse.
“Domestic violence can include physical or sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, economical abuse, threats, coercive threats or inciting fear and control in another person,” she said.
Mrs Tamblyn said Warwick police were pleading with residents to do their part and report domestic violence – “as silence can often make matters worse”.
Anyone wanting to report domestic violence in their neighbourhood can contact Warwick police on (07) 4660 4444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone who feels they are a victim of domestic violence should pick up the phone, call police and put an end to the abuse. Both men and women can also phone Domestic Violence Connect 24-hours per day on 1800 811 811.
Pets can also be used as coercive means to manipulate partners through neglect and abuse. The RSPCA can be called to intervene on (07) 3426 9928.
