Merseyside Police have sent an urgent message to victims of domestic abuse after the tragic deaths of two women this week.
On Wednesday May 11, police were called to an address on Radway Road in Huyton following the tragic death of 43-year-old Lorraine Cullen. A 21-year-old man from Liverpool, known to Mrs Cullen, was arrested on suspicion of her murder and later sectioned under the Mental Health Act.
The next day, another murder investigation was launched after police attended an address in Vittoria Close in Birkenhead at a report that a woman’s body had been found. Police have now formally named the woman as 62-year-old Karen Wheeler.
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Officers arrested a 51-year-old man, also known to the victim, on suspicion of her murder. He was arrested and is being questioned by the police.
In response to these tragic events, Merseyside Police have urged victims of domestic abuse to come forward. Chief Superintendent Ngaire Waine, who leads the Task Force’s activity against violence against women and girls, said: “This has been a week of tragedy for the families involved, and the deaths of both women have left their communities in Huyton and Birkenhead shocked and saddened.
“Rest assured there are teams of detectives working day and night to establish the full circumstances of these horrific incidents and ensure that anyone responsible faces justice. The families of the two women are receiving support from specialist officers as they mourn. for your loved ones, and that support will continue as we strive to get you the answers you deserve.
“The Merseyside Police are committed to working together with communities and partner agencies to address all violence against women and girls. A key part of that is ensuring that victims of domestic abuse feel that they will be believed and supported when they report a crime to us, and we have developed a program of work to ensure that we do everything in our power to support victims. victims, attack perpetrators and reduce violence.
“We want to continue the progress we have made to ensure that Merseyside is an environment where women and girls are safe and feel they can go about their daily lives without fear or harassment.
“Domestic abuse is a complex issue and can take many forms. It can be psychological, financial, sexual, emotional and physical and we want to raise awareness of the support that is available to anyone who is or has experienced or been affected by domestic abuse so that no one else has to suffer or shut up or go. through what they’ve been through.
“We work closely with local domestic support organisations, local authorities, protection teams and charities to ensure services and ongoing support are available, including access to shelters. We have a number of specialized departments within the police to investigate these crimes, but it is important that we all work together to support survivors and work collectively to prevent these crimes from happening in the first place by raising awareness.”
There are a number of ways to report if you’re a victim of domestic abuse, a Merseyside Police spokesman said: “Call us – if you’re in immediate danger always call 999. If you call 999 and you’re not in a safe position to speak to then cough or touch the phone and press 55 when prompted.This will alert the operator that you need help and we will assist you.
“Online – You can report domestic abuse to us online online Report Domestic Abuse | Merseyside Police and someone will contact you, via the specified method, within 24 hours.
“All reports are treated seriously, will be carefully investigated and we will work with our partners to offer support and keep victims safe. We understand that each domestic incident is unique and we will do everything we can to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.” …so that the victims of this terrible and under-reported crime are protected and their needs are prioritized.”
Reference-www.liverpoolecho.co.uk