More reporting of family violence

More cases of domestic violence are being reported in the Bay.

More people are reporting family violence to Western Bay police - a trend the district's area commander says he is keen to encourage.

The latest Western Bay of Plenty monthly crime statistics show dwelling assaults [assaults in the home] reported to police last month almost doubled from the same period last year.

Last month, there were 102 reported incidents compared with 69 in January 2014 - a 47 per cent jump.

During the past two months, there were 195 assaults in the home, compared with 129 for the same two-month period in December 2013 and January 2014 - an increase of 51.1 per cent.

Western Bay Area commander Inspector Clifford Paxton said traditionally police saw an increase in reported offences in the lead-up to and post-Christmas/New Year period.

"We often see increases in alcohol consumption and this, coupled with an increase in people in the area, we can see increased reporting of offences," he said.

Mr Paxton said for some time police had seen a significant increase in the reporting of family violence matters.

"Significant focus has been put into creating awareness around family violence and 'It's not okay' campaign, and our communities are contacting us more often and at an earlier stage to obtain assistance with their situation," he said.

Mr Paxton said police, partners and the community would continue to work together to try and make homes safe throughout the Western Bay of Plenty.

"It is important that as a community we continue to ensure family violence is reported and followed through appropriately, as it has a significant and far-reaching impact on victims, families and the community."

Meanwhile reported incidents of assaults in public places rose 87.5 per cent last month compared with January 2014 - an overall increase of 72 per cent in the past two months.

While assaults on police more than doubled, with 19 offences in December 2014-January 2015 compared with 11 the previous two months.

Mr Paxton was also asked by the Bay of Plenty Times to elaborate on how long there had been a "significant increase" in reporting of family violence matters, and what priority was given to these types of reported offences.

He was also asked to comment on the increased incidents of public place assaults and assault on police and what was being done to tackle these issues.

Mr Paxton replied via email that he was busy yesterday afternoon and was not able to respond in time to meet the newspaper's print deadline last night but would provide the information today.