New law defining domestic abuse comes into force in Gibraltar for first time

New legislation which radically reforms how domestic abuse is viewed and handled in Gibraltar came into force last week.

Among the main changes, the law brings together existing, separate legislation and provides a legal definition of domestic abuse for the first time. It also introduces new provisions and protection to bring the law in line with modern views on the subject.

Most notably, the parliamentary act introduces the criminal offence of controlling or coercive behaviour as well as the offence of non-fatal strangulation.

The act also widens the scope of who can be a victim of domestic abuse and recognises children who see, hear or experience domestic abuse as victims in their own right.

Eventually police and courts will also be able to issue emergency domestic abuse protection orders once extra training is completed.

Minister for Justice Samantha Sacramento MP said: "After many years of dedicated hard work I am very pleased to commence this important piece of legalisation that significantly changes and improves the landscape. I am partially grateful to the Commissioner of Police for making domestic abuse a priority."