78 domestic violence offenders have been arrested for domestic violence related and other criminal offences as a result of an ongoing dedicated statewide anti-domestic abuse operation.
Operation STORM is a state-wide operation designed to focus on domestic abuse offenders identified as having 'risk indicators' which create an elevated level of threat to victims. The primary goal is to take action against offenders who pose a threat to victims, resulting in a safer community.
During February 2025 SA Police conducted Operation Storm which involved 372 police officers across all policing areas in South Australia.
Police targeted 374 offenders and attended 437 addresses issuing 25 intervention orders and 7 stalking cautions, executed 17 warrants for various domestic abuse offences, and laid 143 criminal charges. Further, SA Police undertook 52 bail compliance checks and conducted two firearm prohibition compliance searches to ensure domestic abuse offenders were compliant with legislation.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Linda Williams said since the commencement of Operation Storm in July 2024, 1012 offenders have been targeted and 1228 addresses attended resulting in the arrest of 245 domestic violence offenders, the laying of 485 charges and the issuance of 73 intervention orders.
"South Australia Police is dedicated to a proactive approach to domestic abuse and providing victims with the reassurance that we hold offenders accountable by conducting compliance checks and searches to detect offences and deter ongoing offending," Deputy Commissioner Williams said.
"An offender focus approach, saw 127 support referrals made for offenders to access rehabilitation services, to curb or prevent further offending.
"This prevention approach has resulted in 123 perpetrators accessing the SAPOL website to access this material. It is a step in the right direction for these offenders to show they are willing to seek assistance to stop their abusive behaviour."
"South Australia Police will continue to take actions against offenders who pose a threat to victims and hold them accountable, as well as taking opportunities to refer offenders to behaviour change programs."
A 24 year old Fregon male was arrested after a high risk incident when police were confronted with a metal pole and axe. The man was arrested for multiple aggravated assaults on his partner and breaching his Intervention Order. The victim is now safe and receiving assistance. The man was refused bail and is remanded in custody.
"Our aim is to stop the violence toward victims," Deputy Commissioner Williams said.
"All members of our community have a right to be safe. Contact police or go to a family violence provider if you or someone you know if experiencing family violence."
