Kent Police Report Over 1,000 Protective Orders Used in Past Year

Beyond the Arrest

These protective orders represent a shift in how police tackle domestic abuse, stalking and harassment cases. Rather than waiting for crimes to escalate, officers can now apply for legal orders that prevent contact between individuals or exclude someone from their home.

The orders include Domestic Violence Protection Orders, which magistrates can grant to give victims breathing space after an incident. Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders also fall under this umbrella, each designed to create legal barriers between victims and those who might harm them.

But it’s not just about paperwork.

When someone breaches these orders, they face immediate arrest. The legal framework gives police clear grounds to act quickly if boundaries are crossed, creating a safety net that didn’t exist decades ago.

The National Picture

Kent’s approach reflects a nationwide trend towards preventative policing. The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 pushed forces to work more closely with local authorities and specialist services, moving away from reactive policing towards early intervention.

Across England and Wales, magistrates granted 10,018 Domestic Violence Protection Orders in the year ending March 2024, according to Ministry of Justice figures. Kent’s contribution of over 1,000 protective orders shows the county’s officers are actively using these tools.

Yet the system isn’t without its critics. Civil liberties groups worry about orders being granted without sufficient evidence, potentially restricting people’s movements unfairly. Victims’ advocates, meanwhile, call for faster processing times and better public awareness of how to apply for protection.

How the System Works

The process typically starts with police applying to magistrates after responding to domestic incidents. Courts can grant emergency orders within hours, giving victims immediate protection while longer-term solutions are arranged.

These orders can last up to 28 days initially, with extensions possible through family courts. They might prevent someone from contacting their victim, entering certain areas, or returning to a shared home.

Kent Police work alongside local authorities and specialist services like the Kent Domestic Abuse Helpline to enforce these measures. The NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board also provides support for health impacts related to domestic abuse cases.

Key Takeaways

• Kent Police used protective and preventative orders more than 1,000 times in the past year
• These court-backed measures allow intervention without immediate arrest
• The approach reflects national emphasis on preventative policing following the Domestic Abuse Act 2021

What This Means for Kent Residents

If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, stalking or harassment in Kent, you don’t have to wait for police to make an arrest before getting legal protection. You can apply directly to your local magistrates’ court for protective orders, or Kent Police can apply on your behalf after responding to incidents. Contact the Kent Domestic Abuse Helpline on 03000 120 110 for guidance on the application process, or speak to your local police station about what protective measures might be available in your situation.