Hands off: 1,755 arrested in first two years of Northern Ireland’s non-fatal strangulation law
Two years on from the introduction of a dedicated offence for non-fatal strangulation and asphyxiation in Northern Ireland, police have made 1,755 arrests and secured 765 charges, marking a significant shift in how this dangerous act is policed and prosecuted.
The legislation, which came into force in June 2023, allows officers to pursue cases of strangulation without having to prove intent to commit an additional indictable offence – a major hurdle that previously complicated many domestic abuse investigations.
A hidden and often invisible crime
Detective Superintendent Lindsay Fisher of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said:
“Our figures show that between 10–12% of reporting domestic abuse victims have experienced non-fatal strangulation, placing them at the highest risk. In fact, studies have shown that in domestic abuse settings, victims are eight times more likely to be murdered by their partner if they have previously strangled them.”
Between 26 June 2023 and 31 May 2025, the PSNI recorded 1,893 reports of non-fatal strangulation.
Officers across Northern Ireland have responded with urgency – arresting hundreds and investing in frontline training, with 2,092 officers and staff having now received specialist instruction on identifying and handling these cases.
Survivor speaks out
“Sarah” (not her real name), a survivor of non-fatal strangulation by an ex-partner, shared her experience of the terrifying ordeal:
“I remember the first time it happened, I couldn’t quite believe that this violent man had my life in his hands… It is the most terrifying thing I’ve ever experienced.
“Feeling another person’s hand on your throat and looking into their eyes as they squeeze is surreal… I am pleased that the police have hit the ground running with this legislation over the last couple of years and helped women like me get justice.”
She added:
“Phoning the police that night as I sat broken on the top of my stairs, was the best thing I ever did for me and my children… My message to others out there is – don’t risk your life by staying.”
Recognising the risks
Strangulation is a particularly dangerous form of assault due to its long-term medical risks and the fact that it may leave little or no physical evidence. Detective Superintendent Fisher warns:
“It is common for strangulation to leave no visible signs of injury… Consequences can be delayed by days or weeks. These include stroke, cardiac arrest, miscarriage, incontinence, seizures, memory loss and long-term brain injury.”
She continued:
“Consciousness can be lost after as little as four seconds. Blocking the jugular vein can take less pressure than opening a can of coke… Loss of consciousness indicates at the very least, a mild brain injury.”
Combatting misconceptions and unsafe trends
The PSNI is also concerned about the glamorisation of choking in pornography and pop culture, which is influencing perceptions among young people.
“Often strangulation is glorified as a gratifying act… However, the reality is far from the case. Consent to rough sex is not a defence.”
Know the law – protect lives
The new law criminalises any act that restricts a person’s breathing using hands, chokeholds, ligatures, or any object, and carries a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison.
PSNI has published more information on this legislation and how to get help at www.psni.police.uk/non-fatal-strangulation.
If you or someone you know has experienced non-fatal strangulation, contact the PSNI on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.
