15 requests made in Kirklees under Clare’s Law

More than 80 requests have been made to West Yorkshire Police by people who want to find out if their partner has a history of domestic violence.
BRUTALLY KILLED Clare Wood was murdered by an ex-boyfriend.BRUTALLY KILLED Clare Wood was murdered by an ex-boyfriend.
BRUTALLY KILLED Clare Wood was murdered by an ex-boyfriend.

Clare’s Law was rolled out across country in March thanks to efforts of Batley dad Michael Brown.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme was named after his daughter, 36-year-old Clare Wood, who was murdered by ex-boyfriend George Appleby in 2009. He had a history of violence against women.

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The mother-of-one’s body was found in the bedroom of her home in Salford. She had been strangled and set on fire.

Mr Brown believed if his daughter had known about his history of violence, the tragedy could have been avoided.

A total of 82 requests have been made to West Yorkshire Police in the last six months, with 16 being disclosed.

Of those requests, 15 were made in Kirklees and two were granted.

Mr Brown said he was not surprised by the figures.

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“There is no database for these lads going from one woman to another,” he said.

“Only those lads who have a record can be released. If you multiply those numbers by the 43 police divisions in the country then you have to say it has been a success.

“It is bittersweet for me but I am glad they can now ask the question if their partner has a history of violence.

“Even if we save one or two lives then I will be delighted.”