NCJ Number
158433
Date Published
1994
Length
142 pages
Annotation
Directed to police officers and led by police psychologist Wayne Hill, this videotape presents a dramatization of a domestic assault case that resulted in homicide and presents basic information for use by police officers when responding to spouse abuse calls and trying to determine the potential for further violence.
Abstract
Data are presented noting that among the 4,000 domestic homicides in 1990, half had prior police contact and one- fourth had at least five prior police contacts. The dramatization notes specific verbal and behavioral cues on the part of the perpetrator and the mistakes the responding police officers made in handling the situation and leaving without intervention or arrest. Police are advised to notice such physical clues as a tight jaw, clenched fists, nervous twitching, and blank stares, as well as verbal clues such as unwillingness to communicate. The use of alcohol is also noted as a major risk factor for further violence. The instructor emphasizes that all spouse abuse situations are unpredictable and have the potential for serious injuries. The discussion also notes the need for legislation for victim protection and clear police agency policies regarding police reactions in specific circumstances.