Claims that many domestic abusers are getting away too lightly are all too true, according to an Exeter-based support group for victims.
Figures produced by Labour yesterday showed that more and more perpetrators are avoiding court and being asked to apologise or pay compensation instead - especially if it's the first reported offence.
The local group SEEDS says in many cases the abuse has been going on for some time, and the victim has only just come forward.
It says a change in the law is needed so that the courts can act to prevent non-physical abuse from becoming more serious, instead of only penalising perpetrators after they've harmed their victim.
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