
New domestic abuse legislation will give police 'additional powers' to help victims.
That's according to the Island's Chief Constable Gary Roberts - as parts of the Domestic Abuse Act 2020 are set to come into force from January next year.
He says the laws - which will create a new offence of 'coercive and controlling behaviour' will make a difference.
He admits "there are gaps" in service provision on Island - as currently there are no independent domestic abuse advocates - who, typically help victims to negotiate their way through the complexity of reporting an assault.
Mr Roberts believes the new laws will help both Police and the Island's courts: