Since the beginning of June, 26,000 cases of domestic violence have been reported to the police.

As new data shows, the police receive reports of this form of crime every ten minutes.

Journalist Patrice Harrington spoke to Detective Chief Greene from the Garda Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB) in the latest issue Garda Podcastwhen she made a shocking discovery.

“There have been 26,000 reports of domestic violence since the beginning of June,” Detective Superintendent Sinéad Green said.

This problem occurs in every county in Ireland.

“Domestic violence happens in every village and town in the country. We get a report of domestic violence every ten minutes,” Detective Green began.

Her department, the GNPSB, is made up of police officers who “investigate sexual offences, crimes against children, domestic violence, human trafficking, prostitution and disappearances.”

Patrice cited recent statistics showing an 8 percent increase in domestic violence reports, but the numbers continue to rise.

“We have seen a significant change in how domestic violence is viewed in society. It is no longer seen as isolated incidents.

“We see a more comprehensive picture. Behind each figure stands a man, woman or child.

“There is no typical call. But we do conduct a risk assessment to identify and assess the risk that the offender poses to the victim.

“This is a huge change. Victims will not disclose all information immediately. They know the serious risks they face and they are not able to deal with them on their own.

“A key role for gardaí is to identify cases of domestic violence,” she said.

Patrice asked about “coercive control” and what exactly that means.

“It’s a behavioral crime. It has a significant impact and influence on the individual. The individual may not have experienced violence, but they may have a fear of violence or significant anxiety that influences their actions and causes psychological harm,” Detective Green responded.

“This involves a current or former partner who creates an isolating environment for the victim.

“The victim has less and less contact with family and friends. This applies to both men and women.

“The warning sign we see is that the abuser does not show a true reflection of himself at the beginning of the relationship.

“They seem quite charming. It’s love bombing. The relationship has a huge intensity at the beginning, often with early living together.

“Pregnancy, often the control increases at this stage and the victim becomes more and more isolated.

“The perpetrator’s goal is to control the victim,” Detective Green said.

Patrice asked about the issue of “gaslighting” and what it means.

“We are looking at restrictions on victims’ movements, who they talk to, their phone activity. Control of finances and decision-making on their behalf.

“If they feel dominated, family and friends usually express concerns. Keep a journal of these concerns.

“Build that trust and come talk to us. These investigations can take time.

“Domestic violence can happen across the spectrum of relationships. Women are more likely to experience it from their current or male partner.

“But men and people in same-sex relationships experience this as well. These are horrible crimes. We don’t want anyone to go through this,” Detective Green said.

Patrice asked about “flash points” in the context of domestic violence.

“Christmas can be a scary and isolating time for those experiencing domestic violence. The period following separation can also escalate matters,” Detective Green said.

“We will be providing advice on obtaining court orders and safety. The new non-fatal strangulation laws shed light on how incredibly dangerous this form of abuse is.

“It’s a large part of the cases. It’s a cruel way of expressing dominance. It’s now a standalone crime; the punishment for it is anywhere from ten years to life in prison.

Victims often do not realise the seriousness of what has happened.

“Confidence is eroded as people become increasingly isolated. The perpetrator tells them no one will believe them.”

Detective Green had one final piece of advice for victims of domestic violence.

She stressed how important it is not to isolate yourself.

“Turn to someone you trust who will listen to you and support you.

“Family, friend, gardaí, we have excellent support services. It’s not your fault,” Detective Green concluded.