DOMESTIC abuse is continuing to rise in Dorset despite numerous measures to tackle the crime.

Police recorded more than 20 incidents every day up until April this year, with a total of 8,487 offences. This compares to 8,183 the previous year and 7,425 in 2011/12.

Detectives now have extra powers thanks to Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPN) and Orders (DVPO) to bar suspected perpetrators from contacting a victim and stop them returning to a victim’s home. Members of the public can also apply to the police under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme for information about a suspected offender’s past, known as the ‘right to ask’.

Detectives have pledged to do their utmost to put offenders before the courts and warned many will receive long prison sentences.

“If you commit an act of domestic abuse against your partner, expect to be arrested, dealt with robustly and go through the Criminal Justice System, if appropriate,” said Detective Inspector Richard Dixey of Dorset Police.

“Domestic abuse offences can attract significant custodial sentences.”

He added: “We are determined to support victims in reporting these crimes and make sure those who inflict abuse are brought to justice. “This is a priority for Dorset Police. Along with our own experienced and specially trained officers who investigate these offences, we also work in close partnership with other support agencies who can also offer support, advice and guidance.

“Dorset Police is committed to preventing these offences developing into more serious violent crimes. Across the UK, two women a week and one man every 17 days are killed by their partner or former partner. I strongly encourage anybody suffering from this awful crime to report it and seek help.”