Addressing the 12-monthly report at a recent District Policing Partnership meeting in Dunloy Parish Centre, the Acting Chief Inspector revealed that the number had increased from 66 during April to March 2007/8 to 79 from April to March 2008/9 - up by 19.7%
Inspector David Anderson explained: "The incidence of repeat victimisation increased although the number of repeat victims reduced from nine to six.
"This reflects increased confidence in PSNI and a more professional approach to dealing with domestic violence. A pro arrest and charge policy is followed and victims are given appropriate advice re-obtaining Court Orders."
The police chief also disclosed that a survey on the level of satisfaction with the service provided by the police to victims of domestic abuse had been carried out and published.
He continued: "The survey was conducted by Women's Aid, Coleraine and analysis conducted by Ballymoney DPP to ensure independence.
"The survey was published in February/March and a copy has been given to each DPP member.
"The results have been shared with H District Public Protection Unit to identify ways in which the service to victims of domestic violence can be improved.
"Unfortunately this problem occurs in every society, however we aim to improve in provision of information on support agencies, the manner in which victims are treated and follow up enquires by domestic violence officers."
In response Cllr Evelyne Robinson asked: "The figure is up almost 20%. Do you feel this is due to a greater number of incidences or that victims are more willing to report incidences?
"Also did the survey reveal age limits or trends for example evidence that domestic violence occurred in marriage or non-marriage contracts?"
Inspector Anderson stated that it was 'difficult to be precise' however outlined that the 'policing structure was carried out in a more professional approach' which, he hoped, had 'resulted in the increased figure'.
He also outlined that media adverts and other publicity had been good and hard-hitting which could have made victims come forward.
Answering Cllr Robinson's second question regarding trends, the police chief explained: "We didn't ask things like that in the survey. It was simply seven questions and more about police and the quality of service rather than statistics about the victims. However I'm sure Women's Aid would have such figures."
It was then raised by Cllr Anita Cavlan, Ballymoney DPP Chairman, that Women's Aid were to be invited to a DPP meeting, she added: "We hope to bring them along to explain first hand the trends ie age groups, relationships etc."
Questioning the police figures, Cllr Philip McGuigan asked: "You say there were 79 repeat incidences of victimisation, however you have reduced the number of repeat victims from nine to six - which is nearly 80 incidences between six victims.
"There's something severely wrong when over 10 incidences are occurring to one person - why is it not pursued by the courts?"
Inspector Anderson explained: "Over the past year we have had one particular fractious relationship with 20 plus incidences. Many of the issues are alcohol related, allegations of abuse are made against each other, then non-molestation orders are taken out and then breached, then withdrawn. The couple then get back together for a few days and then we are back to square one.
"Thankfully this situation seems to have calmed down and nothing has happened for a few months now."
However not satisfied, DPP member Joe Donaghy hit out stating: "My concern is that the number of incidences has risen to 20% but the number of people has reduced by 33%. This is not good reading. All I see is a smaller numbers of people creating a 20% increase in violence - it doesn't instil confidence."