Victoria Police is putting family violence perpetrators on notice as they ramp up their efforts to ensure the safety of victims during the coronavirus pandemic.
Deputy Commissioner Shane Patton today announced the new police operation dedicated to reducing the anticipated increase of family violence incidents during this time and beyond.
Operation Ribbon involves specialist detectives from the Family Violence Investigation Units across the state actively checking in on those who have been assessed as a high risk of being the victim of further family violence offending.
It will also see police from these units conducting compliance checks to ensure perpetrators understand their obligations.
"We recognise this is a particularly high-risk time for family violence with stay at home directions adding another layer of challenges for some members of our community to reach out for support," Deputy Commissioner Patton said.
"This means people in our community may be particularly vulnerable during these times and need our help.
"We are sending a strong and clear warning to perpetrators; closed doors will not protect you from being held to account.
"Police will be knocking on doors of those known to us to ensure they are not committing harm.
"Our police are trained to respond to these complex crimes and will not tolerate them in any form."
While police have not yet seen a significant increase in the number of family violence reports in the last month, we are expecting this figure to rise as people come to terms with their new reality and find safe ways of seeking help, such as via family or friends contacting police on their behalf.
The operation, which commenced from mid-last week, has already seen police conduct 347 checks, including 106 compliance checks on high-risk perpetrators and speak to 241 affected family members across the state.
During these visits, 44 family violence offences were detected including breaches of intervention order and assault.
This has resulted in 13 people being charged and remanded for family violence related and other criminal offences. A further 11 people were also arrested and will appear in court at a later date.
"Now is as important as ever that we look out and show support for one another. Check in with your family, friends and neighbours in a safe way, and let them know of the support services available," Deputy Commissioner Patton said.
""There is never an excuse to abuse a family member."
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing family violence, please seek help from police or a support service.
Support is available 24 hours a day through safe steps by calling 1800 015 188 or emailing [email protected]
In an emergency call Triple Zero (000). If you can't get to a phone, ask someone else to do it for you. Victoria Police is here to support you.
