I plead not guilty to gender stereotyping

As the head of the Domestic Violence Unit (DVU) for South Worcestershire division of West Mercia Constabulary, I would like to reassure Mr Richards and all Evening News readers that my officers will deal equally robustly with all perpetrators of domestic violence, whether they be male or female, and regardless of their colour, ethnicity, sexuality or age.

We take domestic violence very seriously and we do everything we can to prevent victims being subjected to further incidents of violence or intimidation.

Both existing and proposed legislation enables us to deal effectively with those responsible for domestic violence, whether male or female, and to provide support to victims.

We work very closely with other agencies to fulfil these twin aims.

I would encourage any victim of domestic violence to contact the DVU and I can assure them they will receive a sensitive and professional service.

A leaflet given to all victims includes a help-line for male victims as well as female.

JERRY REAKES-WILLIAMS

Detective Inspector,

Worcester Police Station.