Domestic violence is on the increase in the UK

Officers from Northumbria Police have joined forces with domestic violence groups to secure "victimless" convictions.

The most recent case involved a man who was charged with common assault, criminal damage and harassment with fear following a violent domestic incident in May.

The woman victim of the attack was supported by specially-trained police officers, but eventually withdrew the complaint because she feared repercussions from her partner.

However, after consultation and because of the severity of the incident, the police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided to continue the case.

Securing prosecutions

A spokesman for the force said: "The victim was summonsed to attend court and showed great courage in doing so, despite her reluctance.

"This resulted in her attacker pleading guilty and he is now awaiting sentencing.

"Throughout the investigation we had enormous help from the National Interpreting Service, Newcastle City Council Asylum Seekers Unit, Victim Support , the Crown Prosecution Service and Newcastle Magistrates Court."

PC Kirsti Binns, of the force's domestic violence liaison unit, added: "This case is a perfect example of how multi-agency worked to secure a prosecution.

"This prosecution would not have been possible without their help and their determination to proceed, and a violent man would remain unconvicted.

"Domestic violence is unacceptable in any shape or form and Northumbria Police will continue to bring perpetrators of it to justice."