In just three months of operation, Members of Strike Force Viridian have made over 100 arrests. The Strike Force commenced on White Ribbon Day last year targeting domestic and family violence across Darwin, Palmerston and the Rural Area.
Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Hayes said so far a total of 233 charges being laid. A further 27 Domestic Violence Orders have been served and 16 Alcohol Protections orders issued.
“Detectives recently charged a 34 year old male after a report of a domestic disturbance in Stuart Park. The male was arrested and in relation to a breach of his domestic violence order. When searched he was also found to be in possession of both prohibited weapons and drugs. He was later charged with a string of domestic violence related offences, drug and weapon offences along with assaulting and resisting police.”
“In another incident, an injured female sought the assistance of officers at the Palmerston Police Station. She had suffered injuries to her head and required medical attention as result of a domestic violence assault. The offender, a 32 year old male was later located and arrested and has since been charged with aggravated assault and breaching a domestic violence order. ”
“Strike Force Viridian was established to reduce violence in our community and we will continue to enforce the laws in order to protect victims of domestic and family violence. Assaulting women and children will not be tolerated and the assault of Police in the execution of their duties is not acceptable,” Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Hayes said.
Detective Superintendent James O’Brien of the Sex Crimes Division and also a White Ribbon Ambassador added:
“Strike Force Viridian demonstrates the commitment by the Northern Territory Police to stop domestic and family violence in our community. It is very much a hidden crime where victims often feel helpless and reluctant to report the violence. Women form the largest proportion of victims in this crime type and I encourage people to stand up for these women and report any incident of domestic and family violence. We as a community need to send a clear and unrelenting message to perpetrators of domestic and family violence that it is unacceptable and Police will do everything in their power to ensure perpetrators are brought before the courts.”
Everyone has a responsibility to report domestic and family violence. If you are a victim of domestic and family violence or if you suspect domestic and family violence may be occurring, please call Police on 131 444 or 000.
