Describe the proper procedure for dealing with relationships that may have abusive or violent elements. Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence and Abuse Situations Domestic Violence are dangerous and unpredictable- no routine calls Family or household- married, reside in the same house, related by blood, child in common, substantive dating Abuse- any type of physical harm or attempt to cause physical harm between family or house hold members

Domestic Violence and Abuse Situations Abusive Action- punching, kicking, shoving, assaulting, placing another in fear, threats, damage of property, hurting or killing Escalating the situation Don’t inform the wife that the husband is going to be arrested May cause her to intervene or drop charges Children will cry and scream because it is daddy or the older children may try to stop the officer

Domestic Violence and Abuse Situations Obtaining Information- prior knowledge is important Dispatch, some computers programs generate information for the officer, records of past, Registration of weapon, warrants, etc…. Approaching the scene-at least 2 officers Supervising officer should be sent Respond regardless if it has been called off Arriving Park one house down (Listen), turn of signal lights Wait for backup unless danger presents itself, Always brief new officer on scene

Domestic Violence and Abuse Situations Entering Residence- knock, announce reason for being there Place flashlight or baton in open doors or windows Never take the word of the person at the door Ask the victim to step outside Can force their way in if: Victim ask for them, probable cause of a felony committed, danger or violence is occurring If both parties request them to leave they must unless probable cause

Domestic Violence and Abuse Situations Inside Residence Control all movements in house (Separate them) Take the two in different room but, make sure the officers can still see each other Never allow the party to leave the room unescorted If a weapon is found take it. Check for proper licenses

Considerations Observations-appearance of scene- out of place Signs of abuse, struggle, injury- red marks, swelling, injuries do not have to be recent Relationship- history of domestic, lawful custody, children involved, outstanding warrants involved in the dispute Other Obtain statement by victim, prodding can be used, comfort and explain to the victim Arrest- mandated by law if their is probable cause. Arresting both parties will not do the cop any good Make sure it is initiation on retaliation Always interview children in a separate room- no parent consent is necessary