Suspected perpetrators of domestic violence will now have to wear GPS-monitored ankle bracelets as part of tougher bail reforms from the New South Wales government.
The announcement came as a result of a review of the state's bail conditions for suspected domestic abusers, launched following the alleged murder of Molly Ticehurst.
The man charged with Ticehurst's alleged murder – Daniel Billings – had been released on bail on charges of raping, stalking and intimidating Ticehurst just 15 days before her death. The horrific circumstances led to an immediate review of bail conditions for serious offenders, and the State Government responded immediately by tightening the conditions under which offenders could be released on bail.
“It is now harder for suspected domestic abusers to get bail, but if they do, these new monitoring devices will ensure that correctional authorities can keep an eye on their movements,” said New South Wales Deputy Premier Prue Car.
While electronic monitoring of offenders already exists, recent reform measures aim to build on this to alert New South Wales Police if the suspected offender enters a prohibited location.
The list of prohibited areas refers to the places most frequently visited by victims/survivors and typically includes areas near homes, schools and workplaces.
Responding to these changes, New South Wales Women's Safety Commissioner Hannah Tonkin explained the immediate impact the reforms would have. “These changes will provide victims and survivors of domestic and family violence with greater reassurance and support their safety planning while the matter is heard in court.”
In line with the reforms, the New South Wales Government has also introduced legislation aimed at strengthening the courts' powers to impose the necessary conditions on suspected domestic abusers to address and prevent reoffending.
“This is part of a coordinated, multi-pronged response to address domestic and family violence in our state, including earlier intervention and primary prevention,” says Jodie Harrison, NSW Minister for Domestic Violence.
Adding: “The New South Wales Government is also working with the sector and survivors as we continue to provide holistic, trauma-informed and comprehensive support to victims and survivors escaping violence.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call 1800 737 732.
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