Overview of Domestic Violence Cases in 2024
The Public Security Police (PSP) has reported a significant increase in domestic violence cases in 2024, with 1,281 arrests made and 15,781 complaints registered. This marks a 32% increase in arrests compared to 2023.
Arrest and Complaint Statistics
Out of the arrests, 625 were made in the act, while 656 occurred outside of it. In comparison to 2023, when the PSP recorded 15,499 complaints and made 971 arrests, this year's statistics show a rise of 310 arrests (32%) and an increase of 282 complaints (1.8%).
Criminal Inquiries and Suspects
In 2024, the PSP opened 19,219 criminal inquiries related to domestic violence, which constitutes over 19% of all inquiries delegated to them by the Public Prosecutor's Office (MP). There were also 6,837 suspects identified in domestic violence cases, with 94 preventive detention measures applied by the judicial authority.
Awareness and Prevention Initiatives
The PSP's Proximity and Victim Support Teams (EPAV) executed 277 awareness actions involving 6,804 participants and made 25,647 individual contacts for crime prevention regarding domestic violence. Additionally, the Safe School Program Teams (EPES) conducted 1,795 awareness activities on domestic violence and dating violence, engaging 39,295 students during the 2023/24 academic year.
Support Structures for Victims
The PSP has established Police Support Structures for Domestic Violence Victims (EAPVVD) to better assist vulnerable individuals, with 19 EAPVVDs currently operational in various metropolitan commands. Alongside these structures, 199 police officers are dedicated to investigating domestic violence offenses.
Encouragement for Reporting
The PSP emphasizes the importance of victims and witnesses reporting domestic violence incidents. They assure that all reported situations undergo immediate risk assessment to implement urgent security and protection measures. Complaints can be filed via email at violenciadomestica@psp.pt or in person at PSP stations.
Understanding Domestic Violence
Domestic violence encompasses violent behaviors, including physical, verbal, or psychological abuse, and is taken seriously by law enforcement agencies in Portugal.
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