POLICE in North Wales revealed today that they are dealing with 13 cases relating to violence against women and girls, including sexual misconduct and police-perpetrated domestic abuse.

There are a total of 27 investigations relating to 24 individuals in the North Wales force, its report said.

Of these, 21 had been assessed by the force itself as gross misconduct while six had been classed as misconduct.

The report was prepared by Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman for police and crime commissioner Andy Dunbobbin.

It follows the recent sentencing of David Carrick for crimes of rape, violence against women and coercive behaviour while he was a Metropolitan Police officer. 

The chief constable’s report notes there had been court cases and misconduct hearings already this year, with more to come.

“There are several safe ways of reporting instances where our employees have fallen short of the standards expected of them,” the report said. “For those victims that don’t want to report directly to the police, then please do so through other organisations such as the domestic abuse safety unit or the rape & sexual abuse support centre.”

Gaynor McKeown, chief executive of the safety unit and the support centre, said: “We recognise that reporting any type of sexual abuse or domestic abuse offences can be difficult.

“This is even more difficult at a time when there have been so many serious allegations made against those who are there to protect us, or if the perpetrator is in a position of trust.

“If you or someone you know are a victim of violence or abuse and you want support, advice or advocacy then please contact our services today.”

Mr Dunbobbin said: “Misogyny has no place in the police service, nor should perpetrators of abuse ever hold any office which is meant to protect others.”