Gardaí are urging anyone who feels they may be the victim of coercive control to come forward.

It comes after a man in Donegal this afternoon became the first person in Ireland to be convicted and sentenced for the offence.

Detective Chief Superintendent Declan Daly from the Garda National Protective Services Bureau said: “Coercive control is an insidious and demeaning crime designed to degrade and debilitate an individual and their persona.”

“It is a deeply dangerous and personal crime against the person usually committed over a prolonged period.

“This conviction and sentencing, the first of its kind in the state, further demonstrates An Garda Síochána's dedication to fully investigate all matters related to this vital legislation in order to protect some of Ireland's most vulnerable persons.”

Coercive control is when a current or ex-partner knowingly and persistently engages in behaviour that is controlling or intimidating and is having a serious effect on a person.

The victim may fear that violence will be used against them, or they may be suffering serious alarm or distress that has a substantial impact on their day-to-day activities.

The victim of Coercive Control may have their freedom of movement reduced.

Every aspect of their life may be controlled by their current or ex-partner – including access to their personal finances and the freedom to see family and friends.

It is a pattern of behaviour. Incidents or details that in isolation are not a criminal offence, but when viewed together display a web of abuse that is insidiously and forcibly eroding at a person’s quality of life.

Gardaí said they stand ready to provide support and information to victims of Coercive Control.

“If a victim wishes to make a formal complaint, we can investigate,” they said.

“To assist us in investigating Coercive Control and preparing a strong case, we will need to gather evidence such as a diary the victim has been keeping, text messages and emails that highlight the abuse, and accounts from family and friends.”

Anyone with information on suspected coercive control is urged to contact Gardaí.

If you or someone you know may be experiencing coercive control, you can also contact:

The Women’s Aid National Helpline on 1800341900
Amen on 046 9023718
The Crime Victims Helpline on 116 006
The Rape Crisis Network Ireland on 1800778888