First Full Violent Offender Order for Domestic Abuse issued in Essex
Adam Mayes, 30, from Sudbury, has been subject to this order for five years, following repeated violations of court-mandated distance from a vulnerable domestic abuse victim
Essex courts have issued the first full Violent Offender Order (VOO) for Domestic Abuse in the region, setting a significant precedent in addressing serial domestic abuse offenders. Adam Mayes, 30, from Valley View, Stanstead, Sudbury, has been subject to this order for five years, following repeated violations of court-mandated distance from a vulnerable domestic abuse victim.
Mayes came to the attention of domestic abuse specialists in November last year when an interim VOO was secured against him. This action was taken following his conviction for causing serious injury to a woman, resulting in two separate prison sentences.
Managed by the Multi Agency Public Protection Agreement (MAPPA) at its highest level, Mayes is classified as posing a very high risk of harm to the public. The granting of the full VOO underscores the seriousness of his offenses, with any breach potentially leading to a return to prison for up to five years.
This ruling represents the first instance of a full VOO for Domestic Abuse in Essex since the legislation was introduced in England and Wales in 2009, demonstrating a robust stance against such offenses by the judicial system. Detective Chief Inspector Nathan Hutchinson, who leads the domestic abuse teams in north Essex, emphasized the significance of this order, stating, "This order is a clear signal from our force and the courts that this offending will not be tolerated."
Hutchinson acknowledged the efforts of law enforcement in safeguarding vulnerable individuals and preventing recidivism among offenders like Mayes. He expressed gratitude to the Proactive Order Enforcement Team and the legal team for their dedication in ensuring justice.
Recent statistics show a decline in reports of domestic abuse in Essex over the past year, with over 3,600 fewer offenses reported. Notably, there has also been a decrease in the number of repeat victims. This decline is attributed to the diligent work of the Domestic Abuse Problem Solving Team (DAPST), which focuses on managing high-harm offenders and disrupting the cycle of abuse.
Members of DAPST closely monitor offender activity, intervene to prevent reoffending, and target those identified as high-risk or potentially high-risk domestic abuse perpetrators. Their proactive approach underscores the commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and holding perpetrators of domestic abuse accountable for their actions.