EXCESSIVE drinking during the World Cup is being targeted by police in an attempt to curb an expected spike in domestic abuse.
Devon and Cornwall police said that alcohol fuelled violence in the home increased during previous football tournaments, particularly following England matches.
Police chiefs are warning football fans that alcohol "is not be an excuse" for bad behaviour.
In 2010, Devon and Cornwall Police recorded a 28 per cent increase in reported alcohol related offences, with the largest increases seen in the offences of drunk and disorderly, assault, criminal damage and domestic abuse.
Detective Chief Inspector John Trott, the force's lead for domestic abuse, said: "Nationally we know that the numbers of domestic violence and abuse reports to the police and partner agencies increase on England's match days.
"There is undoubtedly a link between alcohol and this rise in violence and abuse, the consequences of which are devastating for victims and their families.
"Our advice to victims would be that if you are worried that you will be more at risk during the competition, don't wait.
"Contact the police or any of the victim support services where you will receive the help that you need."
Superintendent Jim Pearce, who is leading the World Cup operations, added: "We want to remind people that alcohol is not an excuse and we will be taking a robust stance in dealing with any perpetrators of violent crime and domestic abuse."
