THE HEAD of Oxford police has said fines will only be handed out ‘as a last resort’ during the coronavirus crisis.

In an update on policing the city, local commander Joe Kidman added that there had not been an increase in the number of calls about domestic violence but said that those kind of incidents would be a ‘priority’.

Superintendent Kidman said: “I understand that this is a difficult and worrying time for a lot people as we all make significant adjustments to our daily lives to follow the measures set out by the government.

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“In a compassionate city like Oxford, I know that many of you will be worried about the most vulnerable and I share your concerns.

“We are working closely with both the City and Oxfordshire County Council, as well as the voluntary sector, to ensure that vulnerable children and adults, including the elderly and homeless, get the support they need.

“I also want to make clear that our commitment to victims of domestic abuse is unwavering.

“We have not seen an increase in such reports at this time, but we recognise the heightened risks in the current situation and continue to respond to domestic abuse incidents everyday as a clear priority.”

He explained that new police powers meant officers could crack-down on people making pointless journeys, saying: “You will be aware that police were given new powers to help reinforce these measures and whilst these are an option to us, we will only use them as a last resort.

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“Officers have been out and about to provide reassurance and to remind us all to follow the Government’s advice.

“This current climate offers up a lot of uncertainty which can make people feel anxious, unsettled and fearful but I want to reassure you that my team and I are still policing your communities, responding to emergencies as well as effecting the government’s restrictions to stay inside and only go out in very specific circumstances. ”

As part of the lockdown the prime minister ordered people to stay at home and only leave their house under a list of ‘very limited purposes’ like getting to work if they absolutely have to and cannot from home or going shopping for vital supplies.

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Last week it was revealed that officers in the Thames Valley – which covers Oxfordshire, Berkshrie and Buckinghamshire – haven’t actually given out any fines yet but officers have arrested and charged 16 people for breaking the rules.

Some police forces have been criticised for being too heavy-handed in their approach but across the force officers have been told to use their ‘common sense’.

As well as fines, which cost £60 and double for every offence, police can also tell people to go home and order groups of three or more people to disperse.

Anyone who doesn't pay a fine could end up at magistrates' court faced with an unlimited fine.