MPs back the M.E.N.'s drive to keep victims of domestic violence safe

MPS ACROSS Greater Manchester have backed a Manchester Evening News campaign to protect victims of domestic abuse.

- JOSEPH TIMAN

The M.E.N. is calling for a mandatory prison sentence for breaches of protective orders. It comes one year after Caroline Gore was killed by her abusive ex-partner less than four weeks after he was spared jail despite breaching a restraining order against her twice.

David Liptrot, 55, walked free after receiving a suspended sentence in October 2023 for breaching the order which prohibited him from contacting her a second time. In August this year, he was sentenced to 20 years behind bars for the murder of Caroline, 43.

Speaking to the M.E.N. after the sentencing, Jo Gore said the justice system failed her sister and called for the law to change when it comes to those with a history of domestic abuse receiving a suspended sentence for breaching restraining orders. The M.E.N. is now calling on the government to introduce a mandatory minimum jail term for breaches of protective orders, like the one Liptrot ignored.

Hundreds of people have already signed our petition which was launched on Sunday.

Our campaign has also been backed by domestic abuse charities, Wigan council and MPs, including one who has vowed to help bring about 'meaningful change.