Townsville police warn of domestic violence ‘red flags’

Love-bombing, controlling behaviour and feeling cut off from family and friends are some of the “red flags” of domestic violence police in Townsville want the public to be aware of.

Love-bombing, controlling behaviour and feeling cut off from family and friends are some of the “red flags” of domestic violence police in Townsville want the public to be aware of.

Townsville Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit Officer in Charge Acting Sergeant Kallan Drury said it was important people know there are many forms of domestic and family violence, not just physical abuse.

The signs include if your partner bullies you; you feel cut off from family and friends; the relationship escalated quickly; threats to harm themselves, you, others or pets; property damage and physical violence.

“These are just some of the signs of domestic violence,” Acting Sergeant Drury said.

“We want to raise awareness about domestic violence in the community and educate people on how to recognise the behaviours and some of the risk factors.

“Abuse comes in many forms, and most often includes the perpetrator isolating the victim from family and friends to better control the victim without interference.

“If the victim believe domestic violence is only physical abuse, they may feel something is wrong in their relationship but may not think it’s domestic violence.

“Every relationship is different. Please seek help if you believe you are experiencing domestic violence.”

Originally published as Townsville police warn of domestic violence ‘red flags’