Officers arrest 21 more people in operation to tackle domestic abuse and violence across Merseyside

We have arrested 21 more people across Merseyside as part of a crackdown on domestic abuse and violence.

Yesterday (Thursday 8 December) officers arrested 21 people suspected of committing offences involving violence against women and girls in Wirral, Liverpool, St Helens, Sefton and Knowsley.

The arrests were made as part of Operation Cassia – a police operation which is part of 16 days of action to arrest a number of people that we believe are responsible for recent domestic abuse.

Three men have also been charged with domestic abuse and violence offences.

Luke Woods aged 22, of Billinge Crescent in St Helens has been charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm. He was remanded into custody and appeared at Merseyside Domestic Violence Remand Court today, Friday 9 December.

John Sloan, aged 42, of Ryecote, Kirkby has been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was remanded into custody and appeared at Merseyside Domestic Violence Remand Court today, Friday 9 December.

Derek Pike aged 40 of Ivy Avenue, Liverpool was also charged with breaching a domestic violence protection order. He was remanded into custody at Merseyside Domestic Violence Remand Court on Thursday 8 December.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Caton said: “Targeting domestic abuse and violence against women, girls and men is a continued commitment of the Force that our dedicated team of officers tackle on a daily basis not just during these specific police operations.

“Our officers will take action to bring anyone responsible for such crimes to justice.

“I would urge anyone who has been subjected to violence, coercive behaviour or harassment to have the confidence to come forward and speak to our officers and feel reassured that we will support them, thoroughly investigate any allegations and bring offenders to justice.

“You can also speak to the partners we work with so we can protect you or anyone that does come forward, and take decisive action against abusers.”

If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.

If you ring 999 and are not in a safe position to speak to us then cough or tap the phone and press 55, when prompted. This will alert the operator that you need assistance.
For more information visit https://www.merseyside.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/support-organisations/