DWYFOR and Meirionnydd’s police force has welcomed new legislation targeting those who subject spouses, partners and family members to psychological and emotional torment.

The culprits often stop short of physical violence but the effects on the victim can be devastating nonetheless.

Domestic abusers who control victims via social media or spy on them online could face up to five years in prison under the new law which came into force at the end of December.

The legislation around ‘controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship’ paves the way for charges in cases where there is evidence of repeated controlling or coercive behaviour and follows a Home Office consultation in which 85% of participants said the existing law did not provide sufficient protection.

The type of abuse covered by the new offence could include a pattern of threats, humiliation and intimidation.

It could also involve stopping someone from socialising, controlling their finances, controlling their social media accounts, surveillance through apps and dictating what they wear.

Detective sergeant Mike Robinson said; “Domestic abuse is often categorised as behaviour resulting in a physical injury, this isn’t the case and the new legislation allows us to prevent victims from suffering controlling behaviour such as financial and emotional abuse.

“North Wales Police remains committed to ensuring justice for victims of all forms of domestic abuse and works closely with partner agencies to provide the best possible care and support to victims.”