Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of behavior where an abuser tries to gain or maintain control over their partner. This abuse can come in a number of forms in addition to physical abuse, including emotional or psychological abuse, economic abuse, or sexual abuse. As a former police officer, we take every domestic violence call with care and caution, and our protocol prioritizes the safety of the victim. 

Domestic violence is a serious crime, and police officers have the important responsibility of responding to domestic violence calls. If you are experiencing domestic violence, there are plenty of resources and options available to you that a police officer can help direct you toward. Your safety is the priority. 

In this article, we will delve into crucial information regarding domestic violence calls, including how police assess the scene after receiving a domestic violence call, how police ensure victims are safe and supported, the critical role of domestic violence officers, and the assistance police offer if there are children present.

If you feel you are in a situation of domestic violence or are in immediate danger, call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 800-799-7233.

The First Step: Addressing Injuries and Assessing the Scene 

When police arrive at a house after receiving a domestic violence call, the first thing we do is assess if there are any injuries. We handle these situations cautiously, as there is also a significant risk of injury to the officers at the scene. If the victim is injured, whether the injury is minor or more serious, police protocol mandates an automatic arrest of the alleged abuser, or perpetrator. If there is a need for emergency medical services to respond to the scene, they will decide if hospitalization is needed, or advised. After law enforcement intervenes and arrests the alleged perpetrator, the matter is then handled by the courts. 

To prevent repeat incidents, the police take these situations very seriously. Even if there are no injuries, police officers will conduct a thorough assessment of the scene after a domestic violence call to ensure the safety of everyone involved. We investigate every room in the house, looking for weapons, any signs of injuries, and evidence of abuse. We also observe the demeanor of both parties, including whether they appear scared, quiet, or reluctant to speak due to fear of repercussions. To gather the most accurate account of the situation, officers will also separate the people involved to interview them individually. Regardless of the outcome of their assessment, a Domestic Incident Report is completed for every call to document the circumstances. 

How Police Ensure the Safety of Victims 

The police’s protocol prioritizes safety. If the victim expresses fear or we suspect domestic abuse, whether the victim is injured or not, we will advise them to file for a restraining order, which is referred to as an order of protection in New York, against the alleged perpetrator. The second method we use to ensure victims are safe is separating both parties by helping the victim find another temporary living arrangement. This will ensure both parties are not in contact with each other while the order of protection is pending approval. 

Generally, the police advise victims to contact a friend or family member who they can stay with. We may also request that the alleged perpetrator leave the home, even if both individuals are on the lease, so that the victim can stay in the home alone. This will make it difficult for the alleged perpetrator to locate the victim. However, this option carries risks, because the alleged perpetrator may have an extra key and could try and come back into the house. 

If it is not safe for the victim to stay in the home, but finding another accommodation is not feasible, we will direct victims to domestic violence shelters. The police will never leave a victim in a dangerous situation, and we may even bring the victim back to the police station to give them time to find appropriate shelter. 

Police also ensure victims are safe by offering compassionate advice and resources. When police talk to victims separately, we advise them that they should not tolerate physical or emotional abuse. The police take these situations seriously and will express compassion and help victims feel supported. Victims will also receive resources and information that will help them understand their rights and options. Police carry a memo book of resources with them which has important information such as domestic violence centers, shelters, hotline numbers, organizations that help women and other victims, etc. 

It is ultimately up to the victim to take the necessary steps towards their safety and recovery, but we will do everything in our power to ensure they are safe and armed with the resources to escape their situation. 

The Role of a Domestic Violence Officer in Supporting Victims  

Many victims are unaware that every police precinct also has a domestic violence officer. Once the police fill out a Domestic Incident Report after receiving the initial call, the domestic violence officer will take over the case and provide additional support. The domestic violence officer’s role extends beyond initial intervention; they are tasked with following up with the victim and ensuring they are safe over the long-term. 

These officers have a specific duty to serve domestic violence victims. They are responsible for managing domestic violence reports, conducting home visits, and ensuring that violent incidents do not recur. A significant part of their duty involves handling unannounced visits and maintaining regular contact through phone calls and home visits. This proactive approach helps to provide continuous support to victims, offering reassurance and immediate assistance when needed. 

In essence, the domestic violence officer serves as a vital resource for victims, offering them consistent support and access to additional assistance if required. These officers are vital to both the immediate and long-term safety of those affected by domestic violence.

What if There Are Children at the Scene? 

When police officers arrive at a scene after a domestic violence call and children are present, one of our immediate priorities becomes ensuring the safety and well-being of the children. Police are required to notify Child Protective Services, who then conduct an investigation to assess the situation and safety of any children in the home. If there are indications that a child might be in danger or is being abused, Child Protective Services will decide whether it is necessary to remove them from the home. 

In cases where allegations of child abuse are present, an on-call investigator from Child Protective Services will respond within 16 to 24 hours, and often sooner. However, police do not wait for this investigator to arrive before taking action. Instead, we may transport the children to the police precinct, removing them from the situation faster, and allowing Child Protective Services to conduct their investigation at the precinct. If the child is evidently injured or hurt, the police will immediately take them to a nearby hospital. Oftentimes, police will also bring an uninjured child to a hospital if they believe the child should be evaluated for any injuries, or for proof of neglect or abuse. 

Every situation is unique, and the approach taken depends on the specifics of the case. If the police determine that there are no immediate concerns, they will decide whether the child should be taken to a hospital for a health check or to a family member’s home for temporary care. We typically ask the victim or their guardians for their preference, balancing their opinion of where the child would be safest with the parent’s common desire to keep the child in a familiar environment. 

Prioritizing Your Safety: Help is Always Available 

The foremost concern of a police officer is your safety and well-being. If you believe you are a victim of domestic violence, do not hesitate to reach out for help. We strive to approach every situation with compassion and support, and we understand that asking for help can be incredibly difficult. When we respond to a domestic violence incident, we will arrive ready to listen and provide assistance, and guide you on how to file for a restraining order. 

Even if you decide not to move forward with legal proceedings, we make sure to inform domestic violence officers at the precinct about your situation. This ensures that you have access to additional resources and support if you need it.

In cases where there is an immediate threat, we will work with you to ensure you are removed from the household and connected with the necessary services. We carry a detailed list of domestic violence centers, shelters, and support services that we can provide to you. Remember, you are not alone; there are numerous resources available to assist you, and we are here to help you access them. Your safety is our priority, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.