Rising rates of dating violence
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Rates of police-reported dating violence increased steadily from 2004 to 2008 for both women (40%) and men (47%). In 2008, rates were highest for women aged 30 to 34 and men aged 35 to 39. A former partner committed 57% of the incidents and 45% occurred in the victim's home.
Women account for most of the victims of police-reported dating violence—8 out of 10 in 2008. About 1% of female victims and 10% of male victims of dating violence involved same-sex relationships.
There were 22,798 incidents of police-reported dating violence in 2008, accounting for 7% of total violent crimes.
Half of all victims experienced common assault. Other offences included criminal harassment, uttering threats, major assault, and indecent and harassing phone calls.
Police charges were laid in 71% of incidents against female victims, compared with 57% of incidents against male victims.
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