Abuse survivor calls police changes 'bittersweet'

A domestic abuse survivor has spoken out about police failings in handling abuse cases across the county, describing a recent force response to tackle the crime as "bittersweet".

The woman previously told the BBC she feared her ex-partner would kill her.

The force's chief constable, Ivan Balhatchet, has admitted, "we got it wrong" on domestic abuse in the county, and said that more resources will be committed to support victims in future.

The woman, who the BBC has not named, said: "It's a bit bittersweet, the amount of times where I was told [the offences] don't meet the threshold to go the domestic abuse team... is a bit stupid."

Northamptonshire Police said it could not comment on the woman's case as it is a live investigation.

The woman said her ex-partner repeatedly puts threatening posts on social media.

Last year, Northamptonshire Police said there was insufficient evidence to take action over the social media posts and that a victim's right to review had taken place regarding the case and the original decision was upheld.

A year on, the woman said the case has been reopened, examining her allegations of stalking and harassment over a four year period.

The case is currently with the Crown Prosecution Service awaiting a charging decision.

Her confidence is now "much higher" but she still gets nervous when she is out, and carries a protection spray which dyes skin to identify people.

She has also set up and co-runs a group which helps victims of domestic abuse and survivors.

The woman added: "It seems like most domestic abuse follows a kind of hymn sheet. It's very prevalent but I think that's more to do with the police not taking action and not taking it seriously or because the courts are full, the offenders are getting suspended sentences.

"Whilst there's no legal repercussions, I don't think much will combat it, until the police and the courts start seeing it with the seriousness that it is."

In a statement, Det Sup Joe Banfield of Northamptonshire Police said: "Tackling domestic abuse is a priority for Northamptonshire Police and we will always do everything we can to seek a charge or positive outcome when an allegation is reported to us and where there is sufficient evidence in order for us to do so.

"We have recently expanded our Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit which now has a strength of 45. I hope that investing in this team demonstrates not only our commitment to tackling domestic abuse but also a genuine understanding as to how much of an impact this type of crime can have on victims, survivors and families.

"The team will be able to provide a better level of service to those who report offences and hopefully improve outcomes."

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