What happened: The number of people charged with strangulation and suffocation has increased nearly six times in three years following the introduction of a new offence under the Domestic Abuse Act 2022. This law enhanced sentencing powers for these serious crimes.
Why it matters:
- It reflects greater recognition of strangulation as a serious offence often linked to domestic abuse and sexual assault.
- The increase affects victims, law enforcement, and the justice system by improving legal responses to such violence.
MNN Take: The new legislation has closed previous legal gaps, enabling courts to impose stronger penalties and better protect victims of abuse involving strangulation.
Sources: Guardian UK