Eighteen arrests made during week of action against domestic abuse in west Suffolk
Operation Drawbridge focused on tackling violence against women and girls across five towns
A week-long police operation tackling domestic abuse and violence against women and girls in west Suffolk has resulted in 18 arrests across the region.
Operation Drawbridge ran from 17th to 21st November and targeted individuals linked to ongoing investigations, prioritising cases based on threat, harm, and risk.
Arrests and operations
During the week, officers conducted targeted patrols and visited addresses associated with suspects, making arrests for offences including stalking, harassment, coercive control, indecent exposure and assault.
In addition to the arrests, six individuals attended police stations voluntarily for interviews.
Chief Inspector Pete Partridge explained the operation’s goals: “The aim for the operation was to take decisive action to protect victims and prevent further harm, whilst holding offenders to account for their crimes and gathering valuable information for ongoing investigations.”
Partridge highlighted the use of safeguarding measures such as Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs) and Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs), enabling police to impose restrictions on individuals immediately after arrest and before court proceedings.
“Similarly, Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) can be applied for by police to the court to safeguard victims where stalking behaviour has been identified,” he added.
Collaborative effort
Activity took place across towns in west Suffolk, including Haverhill, Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket and Sudbury.
Coordinated efforts involved multiple teams, such as Sentinel, Kestrel, Scorpion and local officers. Behind the scenes, The Custody Investigation Unit and The Investigation Support and Development Unit also played a key role in interviewing suspects and progressing investigations.
Supporting victims
Chief Inspector Partridge emphasised the importance of victim support during the operation: “Victims were referred to safeguarding support to ensure their safety and wellbeing and, where relevant, we were able to consider the range of legal tools available.”
The proactive week of action coincided with the start of the White Ribbon campaign, reinforcing Suffolk Constabulary’s dedication to challenging violence against women and girls and promoting safe communities.
“We will continue to work with partners and the public to prevent harm and keep Suffolk safe,” Partridge said.