PCC slammed by gamekeepers over 'damaging' gun abuse claims

THE Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner has come under fire after a social media post that claimed domestic abuse perpetrators in rural Northumberland use firearms to control victims.

- JAMES ROBINSON

Susan Dungworth was making a wider point around isolation in domestic abuse cases, but has been criticised by the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO).

The organisation, which represents gamekeepers across England and Wales, said the post “unfairly stigmatised” rural workers. However, domestic abuse services in Northumberland recently reported a case where firearms had to be removed from a home to support a 56-year-old victim.

The post on the commissioner's Facebook page read: “Isolation can be a weapon in domestic abuse. In rural Northumberland, abusers often use remoteness, legally held firearms and surveillance to control victims.”

The NGO has called for the post to be withdrawn, and for a clarification and apology to be issued. A spokesman added: “In the spirit of constructive engagement, the NGO has also invited Susan Dungworth to meet with us directly.”

Responding to the comments, Livia Brynin, Firearms Advisor for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, said: “The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation does not, under any circumstances, condone domestic abuse. Perpetrators must always be held to account.