Police 'vigilant' for increase in domestic violence as Milton Keynes households go into lockdown

While crimes such as burglary and violence have already dropped over the past couple of weeks, officers are "vigilant" for an increase in domestic cases as well as criminals exploiting the new circumstances, said Police and Crime Commissioner Anthony Stansfeld today.

He was speaking out about the government's new isolation rules and the power police officers have to punish people who flout them.

He believes most people will stick to the rules and police will only have to enforce them "in a few instances".

Since the prime minister's announcement last night, police officers have the power to issue a fine if they spot people in social gatherings or leaving their home too frequently without a permitted reason.

"The powers likely to be given to the police to enforce these new rules are wide ranging, but the vast majority of the public will do their best to obey them," said. Mr Stansfeld,

"The police do their jobs with the consent of the public, and should only in a few instances have to enforce these new powers. It is with the support of the public that the police will be able to continue to provide safety to the people of the Thames Valley. It is up to all of us to make sure we do our best to prevent the further spread of coronavirus."

Mr Stansfeld said there would :be "difficult times" for all public services.

"Police officers and our staff are not immune to the effects of the virus. As well as supporting the NHS by enforcing the Government’s restrictions, the police must still continue to prevent crime and protect the public."

"Whilst some crime, such as burglary and violence, is reducing due to the changes, we are vigilant for an increase in domestic abuse and criminals who will sadly seek to exploit these new circumstances. The Chief Constable and I are confident that Thames Valley Police will continue to offer the public the protection and support they deserve, but we do need the public to abide by the Government’s restrictions, and support public safety and the NHS.

"I am confident that the people of the Thames Valley have the common sense to do so. Remember the simple advice, stay home, save lives."

Under the new rules people are allowed to shop for basic necessities such as food and medicine, but shopping trips should be as infrequent as possible

One form of exercise a day such as a run, walk, or cycle is permitted. This should be done alone or only with people you live with.

Poeple can go out to attend to ny medical need, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person. This includes moving children under the age of 18 between their parents' homes, where applicable. Key workers or those with children identified as vulnerable can continue to take their children to school.

Travelling to and from work is allowed, but only where work absolutely cannot be done from home

Even when following the above guidance, people should minimise the amount of time spent out of their homes and should keep two metres (6ft) away from people they do not live with.