The Chief Constable of PSNI, Jon Boutcher, recently disclosed the number of police officers reported for allegations of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and rape in the past 30 months. According to him, a total of 78 officers have been reported to the Professional Standards Department for such allegations. The average time taken to resolve these cases was reported to be 194 days, with a total cost of £1,600,135 spent on suspending these officers during the investigation process.
Mr. Boutcher emphasized that all suspensions are regularly reviewed to ensure they are proportionate and necessary. This information comes in light of the PSNI’s Violence Against Women and Girls action plan, which recently completed two years. Under this plan, officers have made 3,025 arrests in Northern Ireland for offenses such as domestic abuse, stalking, and non-fatal strangulation.
Since the launch of the VAWG Action Plan, there have been an average of 80 arrests per month for domestic abuse, 17 arrests per month for stalking and threatening behavior, and 77 arrests per month for non-fatal strangulation. These statistics shed light on the ongoing efforts by the PSNI to address violence against women and girls in the community.
It is crucial for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault to speak out and seek support. Initiatives like the VAWG Action Plan aim to provide a safe space for victims to come forward and seek justice. By raising awareness and holding perpetrators accountable, the PSNI is taking important steps towards creating a safer and more inclusive society for all its members.
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