Twenty four arrested in operation to tackle domestic abuse across Merseyside

We have arrested 24 people across Merseyside as part of a crackdown on domestic abuse.

Yesterday, (Thursday 18 April), teams of local officers, led by Merseyside Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People unit travelled across Wirral, Liverpool, St Helens, Sefton and Knowsley as part of Operation Cassia, a police operation to arrest people we believe are responsible for both recent and historical cases of domestic abuse.

Jack Jones, aged 28, of Inman Road, Upton, has been charged with actual bodily harm and domestic violence offences. He appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court today, Friday 19 April and has been further remanded to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on 17 May 2024.

Michael McBride, aged 45, of no fixed abode, has been charged with stalking offences. He appeared at Merseyside Domestic Violence Remand Court, today, Friday 19 April.

Ian Atkinson, aged 52, of Seabank Road, Wirral, has been charged with actual bodily harm and criminal damage. He appeared at South Sefton Magistrates Court on Thursday 18 April and has been conditionally bailed to appear at Liverpool Magistrates Court on 11 July.

James Jacobsen, aged 37, of Window Lane Liverpool, has been charged with three breaches of non-molestation orders and possession of a controlled drug. He appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Thursday 18 April.

Fourteen men have been bailed pending further enquiries, one woman has been warned to voluntary attend a police station, three men are still in custody, and two men have been released with no further action required.

Detective Chief Inspector Sue Hinds said: “Targeting perpetrators of domestic abuse is a priority for Merseyside Police and this operation targeted outstanding suspects of domestic violence and those we believe are responsible for recent domestic abuse against their partners, ex-partners and family members.

“These days of action are only a snapshot of what our officers do everyday to relentlessly seek out those involved in such crimes and offer justice for victim-survivors.

“Domestic abuse isn’t just physical – it can be emotional, sexual, financial or controlling behaviour. It can happen to anyone, regardless of gender. Some of the signs of domestic abuse, such as physical marks, may be easy to identify but others may be things you can easily explain away or overlook.

“Often victims are either in a relationship with the perpetrator or have been historically, it can therefore be very hard for them to report what has been going on. They might still love their abuser, feel loyal to them, are protecting their children or are simply living in fear.”

Detective Chief Inspector Hinds added: “Merseyside Police is determined to break that cycle of abuse where perpetrators continue to commit crime after crime against their victim thinking that every time they do, they are less likely to get caught. 
 
“Please talk to us or the partners we work with if you are a victim of domestic abuse, so we can protect you or anyone that does come forward and take decisive action against abusers. Together we can help you overcome the cycle of domestic abuse.”