NCJ Number
189093
Date Published
2002
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This "Checklist" provides guidance for law enforcement officers and agencies in enforcing stalking laws by thoroughly investigating stalking cases while being sensitive to the needs of stalking victims.
Abstract
In discussing the importance of the law-enforcement response to stalking, this Checklist notes that stalking is a violent crime that has terrorized countless women for years; however, only relatively recently has the criminal justice system and the public recognized stalking as a distinct crime. There are numerous cases in which stalking has been a precursor to homicide, so a prompt and effective law enforcement response to stalking can prevent its escalating to serious injury or death for the victim. This Checklist is divided into sections that correspond with the roles and/or responsibilities of each law-enforcement professional involved in the agency's response to stalking. The Checklist for the dispatcher's response is presented under the following general responsibilities: obtain critical status and victim safety information; obtain relevant information from the caller; obtain related information; provide the victim with critical information; and obtain offender history and information on the likelihood of danger. The Checklist for the initial officer response is divided into these general responsibilities: respond to the call; approach the scene; address the immediate needs of victims; conduct an initial interview with the victim; determine any violation of Federal law; identify and interview witnesses; interview the suspect; collect evidence at the crime scene; arrest and charging; write an incident report; and provide the victim with essential information. The Checklist for the follow-up investigator encompasses serving and enforcing protection orders, gathering further information to support charges, addressing victim safety and support needs, providing the victim with essential information, additional contact with the suspect, and delivering the case to the prosecution office. The management response involves setting the tone through the development of protocols, practices, training, and other mechanisms, as well as providing leadership in community initiatives to reduce violence against women. 8 footnotes