Amid concerns raised about how proactive Officers are when responding to reports, Superintendent Shellon Daniels has reminded citizens that protection orders issued by the court carry the full weight of the law and are not to be taken lightly.
Speaking during a recent episode of ‘Police and You’, Daniels emphasised that abuse is not only physical but also includes economic and psychological harm—each of which qualifies victims for legal protection.
And she pointed out that once abuse is reported, victims have the right to seek protection through the courts. Support is also available from the Ministry of Human Services, which provides “safe homes” for victims.
These facilities are available across the country, including on the East Coast, West Coast Demerara, and in Georgetown.
Victims can also be granted emergency or interim protection orders even before their matter is heard in court, if their safety is deemed at risk.
There have been several cases of domestic violence publicised in recent months, prompting an examination of the avenues of support available to those in need. In some of those cases, like the tragic death of Jenel Pollydore, Police Officers’ responsiveness to complaints raised was questioned. Daniels addressed this in the interview.
“There were instances in the past where victims had orders issued against their abusers, but were still killed. That is not just any piece of paper; that is paper with authority,” Daniels said.
She explained that once armed with a protection order, victims are empowered to call the police via 911 or the Human Services hotline, 914, if the order is breached.
Police are mandated to investigate and take action against perpetrators.
“So it is not just any piece of paper,” she reiterated.
“It is a paper that is signed either by a judge or magistrate with full authority to give the Police the right to enter premises where a perpetrator might have forced themselves and take evasive action.”
Daniels noted that several perpetrators have already been charged for breaching protection orders and warned that offenders face criminal consequences.
She further encouraged victims to remain alert, take additional security precautions if necessary, and report all violations immediately.
Daniels also reminded the public that if a Police station fails to respond, victims can escalate the matter by calling another station, the divisional commander, or using hotlines where “somebody always answers.”
Beyond immediate protection, Daniels highlighted that victims are also entitled to free legal aid, the removal of perpetrators from premises, timely investigations, and even compensation awarded through the court.
Encouraging victims to speak out, Daniels said, “I would encourage every person experiencing domestic violence, one way or the other, to report it. Going to the Police may end up saving your life. It is always better to report.”
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