Yesterday's sentencing of a man found guilty of violating a domestic protection order has been applauded by women's rights groups.

"Today is a breakthrough for all victims of abuse who have suffered at the hands of the ones they love,'' said Nina Jones, a counsellor at the Physical Abuse Centre.

"We at the centre feel that today's sentence was very fair and that justice was served.'' That view was echoed by Women's Resource Director Penny Dill, who said: "The fact that he was charged shows it is being taken more seriously. "I think in every case that does work, more people are willing to take the matter to court.'' But she added that given Bermuda's small size, many women in particular remain very concerned with their own safety. "Many still feel intimidated and concerned that the Police will not respond (to domestic violence incidents),'' she said. "Seeing cases like this helps women to realise that it does work.'' However, both groups expressed frustrations that the stalking charge was thrown out of the case on Monday, pointing out that the anti-stalking legislation is very new and the charge is very difficult to prove.

Ms Dill said that the Centre has found it easier to take matters to court under the Domestic Violence Act rather than the Stalking Act.

"The stalking legislation is still very new,'' she said. "We have used the Domestic Violence Act more because it is much easier to proceed on that act.'' According to Ms Jones, stalking is a common occurrence in situations of domestic violence.

"It's very difficult to prove a stalking charge but stalking and domestic violence often go hand in hand,'' she said.

Alternatively, domestic violence charges can be easier because if an actual assault occurs, there are visible injuries.

Key to Magistrate Ed King's decision yesterday was that he did not believe the alibi provided for the defendant by his current girlfriend.

Ms Jones said such an action would not be unusual in these kinds of situations. "It's typical that another woman involved with him at the time would lie for him in order to get him off,'' she said. Both groups felt that the verdict showed that the courts are beginning to take these matters more seriously.

"Today's case sends a message to the community that domestic violence will not be tolerated,'' said Ms Jones.

"If you find yourself in an abuse or scary situation, please call,'' she said.

The Physical Abuse Centre can be contacted at 292-4366 or at their 24-hour hotline 297-8278. The Women's Resource Centre can be contacted at 295-3882.

Penny Dill