Narromine has the sixth highest rate for domestic violence offences in NSW, according to statistics released by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).
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Data reveals domestic violence related crime rates in Narromine have increased 38 per cent in the last year to June 2018.
District Police Commander Superintendent Peter McKenna said the statistics, calculated by number of incidents per 100,000 people, demonstrate people are becoming more comfortable at reporting incidences to police.
“We take domestic violence extremely seriously, we believe it is a very significant criminal offence, and that’s how we treat it,” Supt McKenna said.
“What I’m pleased to see is that more people are feeling comfortable enough to report what is one of the most under-reported crimes.”
“I think a lot of that comes down to significant campaigns that have been put forward by police, but by other groups where we say to people now ‘don’t stand back and be a bystander and report crimes.”
With a sharp rise in the rate of domestic violence in the region there is a concern that there are a lack of resources to support victims of domestic violence, which comes from having a lower population. However Supt McKenna assures police have a number of support mechanisms in place for anyone involved in domestic violence.
“There are a number of refuges that police can utilise and get people into, there’s emergency accommodation, but regardless there will always be an out,” Supt McKenna said.
“If someone wants to leave because of domestic violence and they contact police, we will put them in touch with the appropriate support services to make sure they are safe and well.”
While statistics suggest a call for concern, Supt McKenna assures no matter the size of a community, domestic related matters are a primary focus.
“It’s our number one crime focus. Every morning we’re reviewing domestic violence offences, we’re making sure that what we do as police, we're getting it right, because we know not getting it right can have catastrophic effects.”
“We are there for the victims and I hope that as many as possible do come forward, and eventually the tide will turn and the numbers will start reducing,” he said.
Zaarkacha Marlan
Court and crime reporter at the Daily Liberal. Formerly the sole journalist for the Nyngan Observer, Narromine News and Trangie Advocate.
Court and crime reporter at the Daily Liberal. Formerly the sole journalist for the Nyngan Observer, Narromine News and Trangie Advocate.
