In March, a total of 50 individuals, 45 men and five women, were arrested in Gloucestershire on suspicion of stalking or harassment offences. This accounted for almost 25% of all domestic abuse-related arrests during that month.
Stalking, characterized by fixated, obsessed, unwanted, and repeated behavior, is a distressing crime that can leave victims feeling fearful and deeply affected emotionally and psychologically. Nationally, 32.4% of all stalking and harassment offences are related to domestic abuse.
Of the 211 individuals arrested by Gloucestershire Police for domestic abuse-related offences in March, a staggering 87% were men (183 men, 28 women).
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Instances included a 40-year-old man sending over 150 messages to his ex-partner after their relationship ended, a 32-year-old man turning up repeatedly at his ex-partner’s workplace, and a 35-year-old man driving past his ex-partner’s home multiple times and peering inside.
Another case involved a 34-year-old man who allegedly continuously messaged and called his ex-partner, as well as threatening to kill her. A 32-year-old woman was arrested for purportedly sending abusive and threatening messages to her ex-partner, and attempting to enter his home. Additionally, a 50-year-old woman reportedly stalked her ex-partner by sending messages and emails, and showing up at the workplace of her ex-partner’s new partner.
Detective Inspector Dave McCoy, the Force Tactical Lead for stalking, emphasized the invasive and distressing nature of stalking, with the potential to leave victims feeling unsafe and isolated. He stressed the importance of raising awareness about the signs of stalking to safeguard and support victims.
Gloucestershire Police highlighted the warning signs of stalking and advised victims to keep a record of events. The force has been proactive in addressing domestic abuse, making 653 arrests in connection with domestic abuse-related offenses in the first quarter of the year.
For those seeking further advice on recognizing stalking signs, reporting it, and seeking support, resources such as www.talkingstalking.com, the Hollie Gazzard Trust, and the National Stalking Helpline are available. The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, sometimes referred to as ‘Clare’s Law,’ allows the public to inquire about potential risks posed by a partner and is also a valuable resource for those in need of support.
With professional support from organizations like Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service, individuals dealing with abusive partners, former partners, or relatives have options for assistance.