Police warn that Euro football tournament and excessive drinking is no excuse for domestic abuse

Northamptonshire Police anticipate that offenders may try to use the UEFA Euro 2024 football tournament and excessive drinking as excuses to commit domestic abuse offences.

Officers are warning perpetrators that excuses won’t be tolerated, reminding them that the only person to blame for domestic abuse is the abuser.

Detective Inspector Kirk Pender-Harris from the Force’s Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit said: “Being an abuser is a choice. Using the results of a football game or drinking too much alcohol as an excuse to enact domestic abuse is unacceptable and deplorable.

“Sadly, we usually see an increase in incidents of domestic abuse during football  tournaments, and we hear all sorts of excuses from perpetrators to justify or minimise their abusive behaviour – blame shifting is really common.”

Perpetrators often try to excuse or minimise their violent or abusive behaviour by blaming external factors, such as being under the influence of drink or drugs. In some cases, they try to shift the blame on to the victim - saying they were provoked or driven to it.

DI Pender-Harris said “Frankly, there is absolutely no excuse for domestic abuse – it’s the individual’s choice to use violent, abusive, or coercive behaviour. Blaming your partner or blaming external factors is no justification, whatever the circumstances or heightened emotions.

“No-one should have the fear of abuse or violence hanging over them, which is why we are warning perpetrators to change their behaviour, or we will come after you. We have officers ready to arrest you and bring you into custody.

“Think before you act – be aware of how you’re behaving. Think about the consequences of your actions - you could be stopped by court order from seeing your family, you might lose your job, or end up with a criminal conviction. Being an abuser is a choice – choose to stop.”

Domestic abuse happens throughout every level of society, regardless of health, wealth, or status. Abuse can be physical or psychological and it affects women, men, and children.

Northamptonshire Police wants to keep people safe, and anyone experiencing domestic abuse is urged to come forward to report the abuse, they will be believed. And officers will do all they can to help you.

The Force encourages victims/survivors to call the police on the non-emergency 101 number, or in an emergency, always call 999.

DI Pender-Harris acknowledged that some people may not yet be ready to talk to the police. He said: “We know that for some victims this might not feel the right moment to talk to the police, but we want you to reach out and seek help. Advice and help for victims are available from a number of statutory and voluntary agencies who can ensure anyone who suffers domestic abuse gets the support they need, without the need to report to the police.

For help and advice go to: https://www.northants.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/

Throughout the month-long competition, there will be zero-tolerance to those who think they can use football as an excuse to commit crime and create disorder. Officers will be out in key areas during matches to respond to any incidents and people are encouraged to report anything or anyone they are concerned about via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.