Police pilot imposes hundreds of protective orders

The Met says the scheme ensures offenders face "swift action"

A Metropolitan Police pilot giving officers stronger powers to restrict suspected domestic abusers has led to hundreds of protective orders being issued in three London boroughs.

Since the scheme began last year in Croydon, Bromley and Sutton, officers have issued 219 emergency notices and secured 180 Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs).

The orders can ban individuals from contacting a victim, visiting their home or posting harmful content online. They can also be used in cases involving coercive or controlling behaviour.

Breaching an order is a criminal offence. The Met says several people have already been jailed or electronically tagged after ignoring restrictions.

Under the pilot, police can apply for DAPOs on behalf of victims through magistrates' courts.

Victims can also apply directly to the family court at no cost. Criminal, family or civil courts can also impose an order during other proceedings.

Across the pilot areas, the Met said there were currently 399 active orders and notices. Eight were awaiting court hearings and 39 breaches have been pursued.

The pilot sits alongside new support channels introduced under the Met's Victim Strategy, including an online feedback service, a dedicated phone line for case updates and new information leaflets explaining victims' rights under the Victims' Code.

Cdr Kelland said: "Although still in the early stages, these new powers are proving essential in preventing abuse from escalating and ensuring offenders face swift action – meaning they cannot repeat their behaviour.

"The orders are another tool to protect victims, alongside driving up charges for serious offences including rape and serious sexual assault and providing additional training to officers."