A POLICE operation to tackle domestic abuse in Dorset over the Christmas and New Year period was a success, say the force.

Officers will repeat their strategies during the FIFA World Cup in the summer and again next Christmas.

A total of 105 high-risk victims of domestic violence were identified in Dorset as requiring home visits under Operation Maple, which ran throughout December 2013.

During the Christmas and New Year period Dorset Police reported a decrease in domestic abuse incidents of five per cent compared to the same time the previous year.

In all 73 victims were visited and spoken to.

A further 29 people were visited and were either not seen or did not reply.

Three were not visited. No arrests were made.

Inspector Steve Thorpe said: “The majority of people we spoke to in person were supportive of what we were trying to achieve and were grateful for our visit.

“We also collected a good deal of information and received reports of further crimes.

“Dorset Police has seen a rise in the number of reported cases of domestic abuse in recent years and I believe this is largely due to victims willing to report it to the police and take action against the perpetrator.

“We have taken a number of steps to help support victims in reporting these crimes and we work in close partnership with other support agencies.

“We have a dedicated team of specially trained and experienced officers and police staff to respond to and investigate domestic abuse and to provide the best possible support and protection to victims and their families.

“I would urge anyone suffering domestic abuse to come forward and report it so that action can be taken to keep them safe.

“I would also warn anyone committing an act of domestic abuse – you will be arrested and dealt with robustly.

“Domestic abuse offences can attract significant custodial sentences.”

For more information on support services available throughout Dorset visit www.dorsetforyou.com/dva help.