A POLICE chief is warning that those who commit domestic violence will feel the full impact of the law after a policy review.

Cheshire's Chief Constable Peter Fahy delivered the message that his force is committed to improving the conviction rate for domestic violence when he addressed members of the police authority.

There was a total of 1,595 domestic violence incidents reported in Congleton and Vale Royal last year but it is hoped these figures will be reduced following the initiative.

Chf Con Fahy told members that a review of the constabulary's current policies, continued work with partner agencies and specific domestic violence training are the weapons the force will use to reach its goal.

He said: "The constabulary is committed to supporting victims of domestic violence through positive action being taken by frontline officers when called to domestic violence incidents."

A report by Cheshire Police's joint inspection team has made a number of recommendations that will be included in an action plan and provide a platform to develop the force's long term aim of improving the conviction rate in domestic violence offences.

Domestic violence counts for 25 per cent of all violent crime and 35 per cent of all murders are domestic related.

Peter Nurse, chairman of Cheshire Police Authority, said: "Domestic violence will not be tolerated in Cheshire and I welcome the chief constable's commitment.

"Domestic violence occurs far too often and has a significant impact on victims and their families and the authority supports any moves to further increase prosecutions for this dreadful crime."

The action plan is expected to be presented to authority members within the next few months.

phennessey@guardiangrp.co.uk