Domestic abuse cars to be deployed during World Cup
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Dedicated police vehicles to respond to domestic abuse are being deployed across the force area this weekend and throughout the rest of the World Cup.
Durham Roads & Armed Policing officers have been supporting the force's response to domestic abuse as part of Operation Topaz, using dedicated call-out vehicles to attend reported incidents across County Durham and Darlington during matches.
The operation provides additional resources to help protect victims and take positive action against offenders during periods when demand can increase.
As well as responding to incidents and making arrests, roads policing officers are carrying out proactive vehicle stop checks involving individuals linked to violence or who have been issued with a Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) or Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO).
DVPNs and DVPOs are emergency measures that provide immediate protection to victims following a domestic abuse incident. They can be issued without the victim's consent if it is considered necessary to safeguard them from further harm.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or know someone who is, and there is an immediate danger or risk to life, please call 999.
If you would prefer not to speak to the police, confidential support is available 24 hours a day:
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247
- Harbour – 03000 20 25 25
Both services provide support to men and women.
There is never an excuse for domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse can also be reported online via our website.