Plans to replace victims' phones seized during Garda domestic abuse investigations

Garda Commissioner is to seeks funds from the Department of Justice to provide a phone-swap service when a device is taken for evidence in sexual or domestic violence cases

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris: The mobile phone issue is an 'impediment' in domestic abuse and sexual assault cases. Picture: Conor Ó Mearáin

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris is to ask the Department of Justice for funds to provide a phone-swap service in sexual or domestic violence cases so gardaí can offer victims a replacement phone when taking their device for evidence.

Commissioner Harris previously said there was a “significant and growing” issue that was hampering investigations resulting from an understandable desire and need among victims to hang on to their phones for personal and professional reasons.