For the first time in the Latgale regional police, a measure of electronic monitoring has been applied. A man violated a court order and approached the residence of his ex-wife.
For the first time in Latgale, electronic monitoring has been applied within a criminal process related to the violation of a protection order against violence.
As reported by the State Police, the measure was applied to a man born in 1987 who violated a court order prohibiting him from approaching his ex-wife.
The criminal process was initiated on May 2 by employees of the South Latgale division of the Latgale regional police.
According to the investigation, the man arrived at the woman's residence in the Augšdaugava region despite an existing court decision for temporary protection against violence. The police classified his actions as a violation of the prohibition on approaching and emotional abuse towards the victim.
After assessing the circumstances of the case, the police concluded that the risk of repeated violence remained high and appealed to the court to apply electronic monitoring. The court granted the request, and on May 18, electronic monitoring was assigned to the man.
Importantly, this is the first case in the Latgale regional police where such a measure has been used in a domestic violence case. Electronic monitoring allows for the enforcement of restrictions and a quicker response to potential violations.
The police also noted that the man had previously come to the attention of law enforcement for failing to comply with court restrictions.
For willful non-compliance with a protection order against violence, Latvian legislation provides for penalties of up to three years of imprisonment.
At the same time, the police remind that no person is considered guilty until proven so in accordance with the law.
Law enforcement officials also urged residents not to remain silent about cases of violence and to seek help in a timely manner.
In recent years, the issue of protecting victims of domestic violence in Latvia has received increasing attention, and the use of electronic monitoring is seen as one way to enhance the safety of victims.
