General News
4 June, 2024
Every report investigated
Police might not always have taken domestic violence reports seriously, but they do now because women don't lie about these issues.
That was the message from police officers to a recent Victoria Police community forum in Horsham.
The forum heard that Western Region Division Four had more cases of family violence than the state average, with breaching of intervention orders a major issue.
Police assured the public that officers of all ages now received regular training on the debilitating effects of family violence, and that every report was investigated.
The forum also heard that a royal commission into the issue had resulted in many positive changes, including more qualified staff and greater sharing of information and data.
Senior Constable Samuel Foster said the guilt, shame and embarrassment had been taken out of violence reporting.
"We want to make people feel comfortable in receiving help, and agencies are working closely together to ensure people get the help they need," he said.