ACPO comment on stalking consultation

ACPO lead on stalking and harassment, Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan, said:

“The police service has played a key part in working to recognise and deal with the harms that stalking can cause victims. All forces now have officers who specifically deal with stalking crimes, including assessing risk and supporting victims.

“What’s important to remember is that stalking isn’t a ‘one off’ crime. It’s a series of incidents which when taken in isolation can appear trivial but when put together they become far more sinister.

“The challenge for the police service and other agencies is to protect victims by recognising the danger signs, by effective use of legislation and by effective and co-ordinated investigation.

“At a time when police budgets are under pressure, finding ways to share good practice and improve our response is critical and the work with charities and partners is more important than ever.

“ACPO will be submitting a response to the consultation and will work closely with the Home Office and the Ministry of Justice to ensure that a holistic response from the criminal justice system meets the needs of victims of this offence.”

The Home Office consultation can be found here: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/about-us/consultations/stalking-consultation/

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk