EditorSwansea man jailed for breaching domestic violence order as police mark 100th DVPO of the year
54-year-old Dean Fitzgerald, of David Williams Terrace, Port Tennant, was sentenced to 21 days in prison after grabbing and threatening his ex-partner in the street — a direct breach of the DVPO issued against him.
The incident coincides with the 100th DVPO issued by South Wales Police in 2025, underscoring the force’s commitment to protecting victims through civil orders when criminal charges may not yet be possible.
Fitzgerald’s history of abuse includes an earlier conviction for an assault in Ipswich in November 2023. That case was heard at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on July 25, 2024, where he admitted to attacking a woman and possessing cannabis, a Class B drug.
He received a two-year community order, was instructed to complete a 35-day Building Better Relationships programme, and must undergo drug testing for 12 months. He was also fined £120, with additional costs of £85 and a £114 victim surcharge.
What is a DVPO?
A Domestic Violence Prevention Order is a civil order granted by a magistrates’ court, typically following a Domestic Violence Protection Notice issued by police. It can prevent a perpetrator from contacting or approaching a victim for up to 28 days, giving survivors time and space to seek support.
DVPOs are often used when there’s insufficient evidence to press criminal charges but a clear need to protect the victim. Breaching a DVPO is a criminal offence and can result in imprisonment.
Support for survivors
South Wales Police emphasised the importance of reporting domestic abuse, acknowledging how difficult it can be for survivors to come forward. Domestic abuse can affect anyone — regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or background — and includes physical, sexual, psychological and financial abuse, as well as stalking and intimidation.
Victims are urged to report abuse via:
- 📞 101 for non-emergencies
- 📞 999 if someone is in immediate danger
- 🕵️♀️ Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
- 🌐 Online reporting via South Wales Police
PC John Curry, speaking on behalf of South Wales Police, said:
“Any form of domestic violence or abuse is absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by South Wales Police. We continue to work to combat domestic violence and to bring its perpetrators to justice.”
#assault #domesticAbuse #domesticViolence #DomesticViolencePreventionOrder #DVPO #PortTennant #SouthWalesPolice #threats
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