Why we need a "stalkers register" to help protect women against abusive partners
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The Daily Mirror today calls for the ­creation of a “ stalkers register” to help protect women against abusive partners.
We are launching a campaign to back the National Stalking Advocacy Service, Paladin, which wants a national database.
Sarah Newton, Minister for Crime, Safeguarding and Vulnerability, met Paladin founder Laura Richards last month.
She said: “This Government is determined to do everything it can to protect victims and stop perpetrators at the earliest opportunity.
“That is why we have strengthened the law, and are taking steps to introduce a stalking protection order. We are committed to a consultation on a new Domestic Abuse Bill.”
(Image: Getty Images)
But the Government has stopped short of introducing the register, which Ms Richards believes is crucial.
The former Scotland Yard profiler said many men convicted of stalking and harassment re-offend with new partners who may be oblivious to their past.
She said: “This is about murder prevention. A change in the law would mean the onus is on the offender to take responsibility for their behaviour and notify police of any change of circumstances.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Paladin will hand a petition with 130,000 signatures to No10 on Tuesday as the issue is raised in the Lords.
A Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme has been rolled out to alert new partners about previous offending – but it does not include stalkers.
A civil stalking protection order is also to be introduced.