Domestic abusers could face drinking bans

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EDINBURGH, Scotland, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- Men in Scotland who beat their wives or partners could face a ban on drinking and regular testing for alcohol under a new police plan, officials said.

If the plan for alcohol bail orders works, it might be extended to other crimes related to drinking, The Scotsman reports. Campbell Corrigan, acting chief constable of the Strathclyde Police, announced the proposal to the police board last week.

Police in Scotland say that there appears to be a clear link between domestic violence and drinking. Domestic violence complaints increase significantly on weekends. Last year, when Scotland lost a major soccer match to Italy, Strathclyde had 126 reported incidents, far above the 92 average for Saturdays.

The bail orders would be used only in cases where perpetrators were drunk and for those with a history of alcohol-related violence.