HOW TO HELP AS LAW ENFORCEMENT
As a member of law enforcement, you have the incredible opportunity of supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence often as the first supportive system with whom a victim comes into contact. You additionally are going to be called onto scenes of violence while many other supportive systems are not able to intervene on that level.
DO
Educate yourself and other law enforcement officials on accurate information about domestic violence. The MOCADSV website offers several virtual trainings on sexual and domestic violence for law enforcement officers.
Be a calm and comforting presence for the survivor once the situation has been investigated and de-escalated.
Encourage survivors to call CARDV and speak with a victim advocate about their situation. Remind them that victim advocates are required to keep all information shared with them confidential.
Consider updating or implementing agency protocols regarding officer-involved domestic violence to increase awareness and accountability.
DO NOT
Pressure the individual to leave their abusive relationship. Understand that it might take several encounters with law enforcement before a domestic violence survivor is able to leave the relationship. This might happen due to their abuser threatening to hurt them or their children if they leave, lack of transportation or financial means, isolation, or manipulation.