NCJ Number
138494
Journal
Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology Volume: 83 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1992) Pages: 241-249
Date Published
1992
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Since relevant studies show that immediate arrest will be effective in deterring only selected instances of domestic assault, alternatives must be found for those offenders who will not respond to arrest-based strategies.
Abstract
The alternatives should be tailored to the distinctive characteristics of offenders; in all cases, however, victim safety should be the paramount concern. Accordingly, the police should be involved in any strategy that attempts to address domestic assault. Where a comprehensive network of services to address domestic violence exists, police are often the "point" professionals who channel victims and abusers into the network of protective and treatment services. In addition to initial contact and referral responsibilities, police are responsible for enforcing any legal orders the court deems necessary for the victim's protection, such as ex parte orders that require an abusing spouse to vacate the home temporarily. Police must also be provided with expanded authority to prevent violence before it occurs. This can be done through legislation that prohibits harassing and stalking behavior and provides for the pretrial detention for particularly violent and chronic abusers. Overall, however, reduction in domestic violence requires the cooperation of all segments of society, including parents, schools, the media, and the entertainment industry, so persons, particularly males, will learn to behave nonviolently. 17 footnotes