Domestic abuse victims reluctant to hand over phones to gardaí

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said there is a 'significant and growing' reluctance among victims of domestic abuse to hand over their phones for Garda investigations, affecting the chances of bringing a prosecution. Picture: Pexels

There is a “significant and growing” reluctance among victims of domestic abuse to hand over their phones for Garda investigations, affecting the chances of bringing a prosecution, the Garda Commissioner has said.

Drew Harris said victims face the prospect of not being able to use their phone “for a couple of years” but may be obliged to continue paying €50 or €60 a month rental for it.