Nearly 80 arrests made by Beds Police tackling violence against women and girls
Bedfordshire Police arrested 78 people for domestic abuse-related offences during a dedicated 16-day campaign to tackle male violence against women and girls.
As part of the international campaign, which concluded on Wednesday (December 10), the force’s Emerald Proactive Arrest Team carried out daily patrols targeting those causing the greatest harm to women and girls across the county.
In total, the team made 59 arrests, with a further 19 individuals handing themselves in following proactive enquiries by officers.
Alongside enforcement activity, the force took part in a series of events aimed at raising awareness, educating communities, and encouraging victims to come forward and report abuse.
More than 70 people also submitted requests under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme – known as Clare’s Law – with many now receiving support from the force’s victim engagement officers.
Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown said: “Tackling male violence against women and girls is a priority for Bedfordshire Police every day of the year. “During 16 Days of Action, we intensified our efforts to drive down offending, support victims, and educate both our workforce and the public.
“Thanks to the hard work of our Emerald team and colleagues across the force, a number of potentially dangerous offenders are now off the streets, and many women have gained vital information about their relationships – empowering them to walk away from abuse and seek help.
“This work doesn’t stop here. As we enter the festive season, we’re focusing on preventing harassment and abuse during evenings in our town centres. Our message is clear: abuse of any kind will not be tolerated. Dedicated officers will be out in force to make our communities safer and clamp down on harmful behaviour.”