text:
Domestic Violence: Best Practices for Law Enforcement s Response. A Model Policy Manual Prepared Under the Violence Against Women Act
- Adelia Bell
- 1 years ago
- Views:
1 Best Practices for Law Enforcement Response
2 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: BEST PRACTICES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE A Model Policy Manual Prepared Under the Violence Against Women Act North Carolina Governor s Crime Commission Violence Against Women Committee January 1998
3 James B. Hunt Jr. Governor Department of Crime Control and Public Safety Secretary Richard Moore North Carolina Governor s Crime Commission Linda Hayes, Chair Robin Lubitz, Director Violence Against Women Committee Wanda Bryant, Chair Jane Cousins Tom Haigwood Joyce Allen Juanita Bryant Annette Sheppard Catherine Smith Kathy Hodges Karen Luciano Margaret Henderson Rusty Sherrill Ron Spivey Dr. David Gremillion Heather Williams Jennie Lancaster Prepared by: Ada Gregory Scott Peters Victims Planner IS Policy Analyst Governor s Crime Commission Governor s Crime Commission For more information about the Governor s Crime Commission or the Violence Against Women Committee, please contact: Governor s Crime Commission 3824 Barrett Drive, Suite 100 Raleigh, North Carolina (919) You can view or obtain an electronic version of this document from the GCC web site: The Violence Against Women Committee of the Governor s Crime Commission appreciates the invaluable contributions and support provided by: John Rubin and Joan Brannon of the Institute of Government for their thoughtful critiques; Christy Koch of the Zero Tolerance Coalition for meticulously editing the bilingual information; and Daniel DeMeyts and Erica Wolff, whose earlier work as interns proved essential to the creation of the supplementary materials.
4 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Definitions... Background... Arrest Studies... Civil Liability... Implementing Policy... Administrative Support... Officers Involved in Domestic Violence... Training.... Community Support... i ii-iv iii iii iv-vi iv v v vi MODEL PROTOCOLS 911: Dispatcher Protocol... 1 Response Procedure... 1 Victim Safety The Domestic Violence Model Protocol Purpose Definitions Training Response Procedure... 2 Initial Contact On-Scene Investigation... 3 The Arrest Decision Violation of Protective Orders... 6 Federal Crimes Effecting the Arrest... 8 Evidence Collection... 8 After the Arrest... 9 Victim Safety Follow-up Investigation Other Calls for Service Officer Involved Domestic Violence APPENDIX Appendix A: Domestic Violence Supplemental Form Appendix B: Victim s Rights Information Card Appendix C: Youth Safety Plan Appendix D: Lethality Assessment
5 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: BEST PRACTICES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE INTRODUCTION Domestic violence is one of the root causes of virtually every major social problem that we face in the nation today. Janet Reno The Violence Against Women Committee of the Governor s Crime Commission developed this manual to inform law enforcement agencies of the best methods of assisting domestic violence victims. A uniform protocol will help to standardize the reporting and investigation of domestic violence throughout the state of North Carolina. The preferred arrest procedure included herein models policy endorsed by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the American Bar Association. It follows the emerging trends in law enforcement agencies across the nation. The policy addresses the unique laws and criminal justice procedures of North Carolina to make the most progressive approaches to domestic violence relevant to local jurisdictions. The Governor s Crime Commission (GCC) recognizes that the needs of agencies will differ based on the problems of local communities, and the services and resources available. The GCC encourages law enforcement executives to review this manual critically and adapt it to their needs. This document discusses the essential background information necessary to provide greater understanding of the philosophy behind a pro-arrest protocol and to ease the implementation of the model policy in any agency. DEFINITIONS Domestic violence is abuse between former or current intimate partners. Most often this abuse is a pattern of physically, psychologically and emotionally destructive behavior. Intimate relationships are defined as persons who are married, separated, or divorced, who live or have lived together, who have a child in common, or who are or were dating. This definition is based on North Carolina laws which recognize that domestic violence relationships extend beyond live-in or marital relationships. As of December 1, 1997, NCGS 50-B, which regulates civil protection orders, includes dating relationships between members of the opposite sex and relationships between current or former household members whether of the same or opposite sex. NCGS 50-B also recognizes abuse by an adult child and child abuse; however, this protocol is specifically designed to address domestic violence, not family violence. Child abuse is mentioned, but a separate standard operating procedure is necessary to address the unique laws and reporting requirements of child abuse. This protocol limits the statutory definition of NCGS 50-B by excluding other family members, such as children or parents, and individuals living together in a situation in which the relationship is usually not considered intimate, such as a dormitory or rooming arrangement. Agencies may want to extend their departmental definition by including same sex dating relationships in which the victim and the batterer do not live together, nor have in the past. To date, that is the only dating relationship excluded from protection by 50-B. Dating relationships between members of the same sex can be just as violent and threatening as any opposite sex relationship. Although the legal remedies are limited for this population, officers should be aware of the presence of domestic violence. They should conduct and document thorough investigations, and provide the victim with safety information and referrals. Officers should recognize domestic violence in all contexts. For the purpose of warrantless arrest only, the North Carolina legal definition of domestic violence is limited to members of the opposite sex who are former of current spouses or live-in partners. All dating relationships, same sex relationships and couples with a child in common are excluded. Although the criminal legal remedies for these relationships differ, officers can still make arrest pursuant to a warrant, safety plan with victims and make referrals to victim service agencies. i
6 North Carolina statutes recognize certain assault and trespass crimes as domestic violence crimes for purposes of arrest (NCGS. 15A-401(b)2); however, abuse may encompass a myriad of crimes. Any violent act may be considered domestic violence related if an intimate relationship exists between the offender and victim. A relatively minor offense, such as vandalism, may be viewed as a much more threatening crime when considered in the context of an escalating domestic violence relationship. The common domestic crimes include, but are not limited to, homicide, rape, assault, breaking and entering, burglary, trespass, kidnapping, damage to property, cruelty to animals, harassing phone calls, and communicating threats. All domestic violence cases should be handled according to this policy, regardless of the perceived severity of the offense. For grammatical purposes, the feminine pronoun may be used to describe the victim and the masculine to describe the offender. However, this is not to say there are not male victims, both gay and heterosexual, and female batterers. Some husbands/boyfriends are abused; however, the vast majority of domestic violence victims are women. According to FBI statistics, 26% of female homicide victims are murdered by their intimate partners, compared to 3% of males. A woman is seven times more likely to experience nonfatal violence by an intimate than a man.(fbi, Crime in the United States 1995: Uniform Crime Reports, and BJS, Violence Against Women: Estimates from the Redesigned Survey, August 1995, NCJ ) In a North Carolina study of female homicides, 51% of female victims were murdered by an intimate. (Injury Prevention Research Center, 1997) Regardless of gender, every victim should be afforded protection and assistance. BACKGROUND If no permanent injury has been inflicted, nor malice, cruelty, nor dangerous violence shown by the husband, it is better to draw the curtain, shut out the public gaze, and leave the parties to forgive and forget... State of North Carolina Vs. Oliver 1874 Historically, domestic violence has been treated differently than other violent crimes. Into the late 19th century, a North Carolina court held that a man could physically punish his wife without fear of legal reprisal as long as the stick was no thicker than his thumb. (Marshall, L. J. Wife Abuse Legislation in California, Pennsylvania and Texas, supra note 4, at 290, 1982) Even when such laws were reformed, the public viewed wife abuse as a private matter to be resolved within the family and without public interference. Law enforcement has traditionally reinforced social norms by leaving the parties to forgive and forget. Written policies up into the 1950 s directed officers to recognize the sanctity of the home and to end the disturbance without making an arrest. (Finesmith, Police Response to Battered Women, 1983) In the 1970 s, domestic violence victims, advocates, researchers, and other professionals worked together to expose the true nature and extent of the problem. Greater understanding of domestic violence created more pressure on law enforcement to change, and tasked officers with crisis intervention. The preferred response to family violence waffled from separate to mediate. The result was often sporadic, discretionary decisions that were sometimes influenced by frustrating experiences with repetitive calls, dropped charges and uncooperative victims. Officers often felt they were thrown into the role of preacher, social worker, and marriage counselor under the guise of crisis intervention. The violence was yet to be recognized as a crime. Batterers were seldom arrested, and rarely tried in court because prosecutors failed to actively pursue cases where the victim and offender had an intimate relationship. Officers returned to the same addresses to mediate the same couples again and again, until eventually the family problem was passed down to the next generation. In the last twenty years public pressure to recognize domestic violence as a crime, rather than a family problem, continued to grow due to educational efforts by victims and advocates. As a result, North Carolina like many other states introduced statutory changes to expand the authority of law enforcement officers in domestic violence cases, and to protect victims of domestic violence from continued abuse through civil emergency relief. NCGS 50-B has twice been amended to encompass more victims of violence, and to provide more options to officers in dealing with these cases. Warrantless arrest is now authorized in certain domestic violence misdemeanor cases, even when the offense was committed outside the presence of the officer. The focus for law ii
7 enforcement is now on arresting lawbreakers. One of the most significant influences on this shift in public policy came from widely publicized research on the effectiveness of arrest. Arrest Studies The research began in the early eighties with a study in Minneapolis, Minnesota that analyzed the effect of arrest in misdemeanor domestic assaults. The experiment looked at three possible police responses: arrest, separation, and mediation. The study found that those suspects who were arrested were less likely to repeat the violence within six months. As a result of this study and lobbying efforts, law enforcement departments across the country began introducing pro-arrest policies. By 1986, 50% of departments, which served populations over 100,000, encouraged officers to make arrests of domestic violence offenders in written policy, compared to 10% in As more and more policies were introduced, social science attempted to re-evaluate their effectiveness, particularly in regard to deterring recidivism. Many researchers felt this public policy flip-flop was based on only one experiment in Minneapolis, which was questionable in its design and implementations. Replications were attempted in six other cities. Despite the initial positive results of the Minneapolis experiment, studies in five of the other cities found the results inconclusive. However, concluding that arrest is an ineffective deterrent based on these police experiments may be premature and inaccurate. Most offenders in these experiment sites were not prosecuted once arrested. Legal sanctions were limited to booking for most of those arrested. Few were handcuffed, most spent only a few hours in custody and only a small number were jailed overnight. (Fagan, Jeffrey. The Criminalization of Domestic Violence: Promises and Limits. January 1996.) The experiments looked only at the one dimensional response of police at the scene and did not take into account the effect of the rest of the criminal justice process. Thus, most researchers have concluded that the effects of arrest remain unknown. Jurisdictions that have introduced pro-active protocols, training, and victimless prosecutions have experienced a dramatic increase in the number of cases reported to law enforcement, and a dramatic decrease in the number of domestic murders. Cities consistently experienced fewer domestic violence related homicides when police, prosecutors and judges cooperated to treat domestic abuse as criminal behavior. San Diego s domestic homicide rate dropped 59% from 18 to 7 in three years; Tulsa dropped from 16 to 1 in three years. Quincy, Massachusetts has had only one domestic related homicide in more than 11 years. The experience of these cities mirrors those of others across the country. (Stubbing, Ed. Response to the Victimization of Women and Children, Vol. 13, No.1, 1990.) Research has not yet even considered the effectiveness of a community wide response to deter recidivism and homicide. But, experiences in communities across the United States suggest domestic violence is preventable. Civil Liability Law enforcement agencies examined the way officers addressed domestic violence, not only because of public policy research and lobbying pressure, but because of mounting liability for failure to protect victims. The first hallmark case in 1984 in Torrington, Connecticut awarded Tracy Thurman $2.3 million. The decision ruled that the city and twenty-four of its officers violated Thurman s right to equal protection under the 14th Amendment. Thurman repeatedly notified the police of her husband s threats. Police failed to arrest him despite assurances that they would. Eventually, her husband brutally stabbed her, leaving her disfigured and partially paralyzed. The court concluded that a police officer may not automatically decline to make an arrest simply because the assailant and his victim are married to each other. (Thurman v. City of Torrington, 595 F Supp. 1528, 1984) Similar court rulings have held police liable for failure to protect when a special relationship exists. A special relationship may be created with the existence of a protective order, knowledge of a violent history, and/or a request for assistance. For example, in Sorchetti V. City of New York 1985, the Court of Appeals held that Mrs. Sorchietti had a reasonable expectation of protection when she reported that her husband had failed to return her daughter after a weekend visitation. Mrs. Sorchetti had separated from her husband and received a protective order. When she dropped off her daughter for a weekend visit, her husband made threats on both their lives; she iii
8 reported this to police. When he was late in returning with her daughter, she called police but was told to wait. During this time, Mr. Sorchetti stabbed his daughter repeatedly and attempted to saw off her leg. Although no North Carolina state tort cases set precedence for failure to protect liability suits in domestic violence cases, North Carolina courts have recognized a duty to protect others against harm from third persons in at least one 1995 decision. In Davis v. North Carolina Department of Human Resources, the North Carolina Appeals Court ruled that negligence may be found when there is a duty, a breach of that duty, a causal connection between the conduct and the injury, and an actual loss. In the Davis case, Dondiago Rivers, a man with known mental illness, a substance abuse problem, and a violent history of manslaughter, was released from an involuntary commitment to stand trial for a pending assault charge. The release was recommended by a state hospital psychiatrist who had been treating Rivers. On June 5, 1985, Rivers received a suspended sentence and supervised probation despite his previous record. Shortly after his release in August, Rivers walked across an intersection in front of Phillip Davis car, pointing and saying something inaudibly. Rivers ran away when Davis pulled a tire jack out of the trunk of his car. When Davis stopped two blocks down the road at a convenience store, Rivers ran up from behind him and hit Davis on the head with a fence post, killing him. The courts ruled that it was reasonably foreseeable that Rivers, if released, would harm or murder someone else. The hospital psychiatrist breached his duty to the victim by advising the court that Rivers was not dangerous. This decision suggests that a breach of duty that results in injury or loss may be negligence by the party instilled with that duty. The expanded powers of law enforcement mandated in NCGS 50-B create a special duty of protection in certain circumstances of domestic violence. If law enforcement officers refuse to make an arrest, when a request for assistance is made, a protective order exists, or a history of violence is known, the officers, department and jurisdiction may be held liable. With mounting public insistence that police treat domestic violence the same as stranger crimes, failure to do so may result in court action as well as a more debilitating loss of faith by the public. Implementing and periodically reviewing policy that trains officers to understand the law and their responsibilities is essential to reduce liability and protect victims. IMPLEMENTING POLICY Traditionally, the freedom to exercise discretion is one of the most valued tools of officers. Anytime a policy appears to compromise that discretion, resistance can be expected. Law enforcement executives can anticipate the same response to a pro-arrest policy for domestic violence. It is important to distinguish that a pro-arrest policy is not the same as a mandatory arrest policy. Rather, a pro-arrest domestic violence policy is similar to the North Carolina DWI response in the past decade. When officers have probable cause for a misdemeanor DWI, an arrest is expected by the administration and the community. Domestic violence is now being looked upon in the same manner. Victims and the community expect law enforcement to treat domestic abuse as a crime and to make the arrest when probable cause suggests a crime was committed. Experience in other jurisdictions indicates that departments with the greatest compliance are those with strong administrative support, comprehensive in-service training, and support from the community. Administrative Support Support from the top down is essential for sustained success of any new policy or procedure. The Chief or Sheriff and his command staff should have a thorough understanding behind the philosophy and practice of a pro-arrest policy. They should strengthen the policy by allocating resources to domestic violence enforcement, by ensuring compliance to the policy, and by introducing the policy internally as well as externally. The pro-arrest approach emerged in the 1980 s; however, departments have only recently enforced their written policies to ensure victims are protected. Compliance can be difficult in law enforcement, because officers are often entrusted to make independent decisions with little direct supervision at the scene. Supervisors must be keenly aware of the policy mandates, and ensure the officers in their charge abide by them. Some departments have appointed one domestic violence coordinator to review reports, work with local shelters and prosecutors, and train officers. This position creates a central contact for victims, officers and others to pinpoint problems with particular cases, and ensure the best response is achieved consistently. Other agencies have developed specialized units through a reallocation of resources, federal grants, and grants from the GCC. These units often iv
9 review all reports, provide follow-up, train officers and other community agencies, and investigate internal complaints of domestic violence. Officers Involved In Domestic Violence In 1994, the Southwestern Law Institute and the Arlington, Texas Police Department surveyed 123 police agencies in communities with more than 100,000 people. They found about half lacked an internal affairs policy on abusers, and only one in five departments fired an officer after a second domestic abuse offense. (Levinson, Arlene. Cops Who Commit Domestic Violence. Associated Press, 1997) An internal policy is essential to ensure all cases of domestic violence are handled appropriately. A sample policy is included in the final section of the protocol. This policy includes recommendations from the most recent report on cops who batter, released by the Los Angeles Police Department Domestic Violence Task Force and the Office of the Inspector General. The report evaluated the LAPD's handling of all completed internal domestic violence-related investigations of its employees from the beginning of 1990 through May 19, The researchers found that: many employees' performance evaluations lacked documentation of abuse; employees accused of domestic violence were less likely to be arrested if the incident occurred inside Los Angeles city boundaries; and, there was an apparent bias in favor of sworn officers over civilian employees. Seventy-one percent of domestic violence allegations against civilian LAPD employees were sustained, but only 37% of allegations against sworn personnel were sustained. ( Domestic Violence in the LAPD, Family Violence Prevention Fund, August 28, 1997) The personal experience of officers in domestic violence, either as an abuser or a victim, will most certainly affect their views regarding domestic violence enforcement. Law enforcement agencies should be cognizant of this effect, and should implement internal policies that specifically address employees who are either perpetrators or victims of domestic violence. Employers can provide victims with benefit packages which include counseling and referrals, or leave policies enabling them to go to court. Some agencies have developed training programs which teach supervisors and other employees how to identify co-workers who are victims, and direct them to services in the community. (Supervisors could be required to attend a two-hour awareness seminar as a part of their in-service training). Agencies should be prepared to offer perpetrators intervention strategies, or enforce disciplinary or criminal sanctions when appropriate. Employees may need special assistance when both the perpetrator and the victim are officers working for the same law enforcement agency. Already, a growing number of agencies are beginning to develop policies and programs that are responsive to the particular needs of battered women. These policies must include all victims, even fellow officers. Police departments must work deliberately to eliminate domestic violence among their officers, and in the rest of the community. A strong internal policy, like the one included in this protocol, is only the beginning. Swift, certain and severe sanctions for officers who violate the policy must follow. Some police departments are taking a step farther by attempting to screen batterers out during the hiring process. The Baltimore Police Department believes that individuals who are emotionally capable of abusing their domestic partners may be more likely to demonstrate similar behaviors while performing their duties. (Patten, Margaret. Domestic Violence Behind the Badge, Subject to Debate, September 1996, p.6.) Baltimore s investigators and polygraph examiners are proactively asking additional questions or rephrasing current questions to identify batterers at the interview stage. Baltimore is also experimentally evaluating the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory test results of veteran officers who have been reported as aggressors. They are looking for common traits that may be a red flag to a potentially abusive officer. Before hiring an officer with these traits, a more in-depth investigation into the candidate s background would be conducted to ensure no legitimate reasons for disqualification are revealed.(patten, p.6) Training The officers knowledge and attitudes are important factors in providing effective responses. Training for all officers is the most essential element to successful implementation of policy. Effective training is what turns written protocol into street policy. Prior to introducing the policy, training schedules should include at least five hours on domestic violence dynamics, laws, procedures and departmental policies, so that officers will understand the appropriate response. Any training given to line officers and detectives should be delivered to the rest of the command staff. Dispatchers should receive comparable training designed to address their unique role in the police response. Some departments have included up to twenty hours of training on domestic violence in Academy classes and in-service programs, and developed an additional supervisor training course. v
10 In designing training, each department must assess and deal with the existing attitudes and procedural habits of officers. Do the officers view domestic violence as a private family affair? Do they routinely clear up domestic calls with no paperwork? Have they been trained in crisis intervention skills? Do they have reasonable assurance that the department, and the rest of the criminal justice system, will back them up after an arrest is made? Training must be targeted to address these perspectives. The GCC can provide law enforcement agencies with complementary training materials that teach officers how to use and understand the model policy in practical terms. The training manual addresses the more technical issues of: identifying self-defense and the primary aggressor; collecting evidence at the scene; interviewing victims, suspects and child witnesses; determining probable cause; and, the basics of domestic violence dynamics. These generic materials can easily be enhanced to address local needs. Community Support Although arrest is an essential tool for officers to use in domestic violence cases, arrest alone will not deter future incidents of violence. This manual and the model policy describe several means for officers to assist victims beyond arrest. These include offering information and support, referring victims to shelters, and assisting in safety planning. Included in the index are a domestic violence victims rights and safety plan card and a youth safety plan that can be adapted to include the name and number of local resources. Electronic versions of these documents are available from the GCC. Officers should at least provide all victims with written information that they can refer to later, and/or assist victims in placing calls to a local domestic violence service provider. This information can be printed on the back of a triplicate incident report, or simply reproduced on a pad that can be stored with other reports. Some law enforcement agencies have developed other safety programs for victims of domestic violence. These programs include: providing cellular phones to victims who are being stalked or do not have phones in the home; panic alarm amulets that victims can push to notify police of any need for assistance; and, the Night for Life program in which local hotels give a night s stay to a victim when the local shelters are full. Law enforcement s role is only one part of the community-wide response necessary to address domestic violence adequately. Law enforcement must join with other criminal justice, social service and victim advocate agencies to combat domestic violence effectively. Many jurisdictions have developed task forces or councils that involve all the agencies and organizations that interact with domestic violence victims. The task force concept provides a framework in which the response to domestic violence can most effectively be improved because it brings the criminal justice system and the community together. Regular, public meetings provide the task force with a forum to detect, investigate and monitor domestic violence cases, and the community s response. With the collaboration of officers, judges, prosecutors, probation officers, doctors, magistrates, victim advocates and victims themselves, domestic violence can be stopped. vi
12 911: DISPATCHER PROTOCOL Dispatchers play a critical role in receiving, relaying and recording reports of domestic violence. Dispatchers should be aware of the of the potential dangers presented by domestic incidents and should be trained annually on the topic. Departments should assess the feasibility of implementing special prompter screens and record systems which can be immediately pulled up with an incoming call. A telecommunicator who receives a report of a domestic violence incident should dispatch officers to respond to the scene in every incident. Domestic violence calls should be treated with the same priority as other life-threatening calls for service. Preferably two officers should be dispatched to the scene. Should the victim call back and cancel the request for assistance, the dispatcher should not cancel the response. Instead advise officers of the call-back but have them continue to the scene to determine if further investigation is warranted. RESPONSE PROCEDURE During the initial call for assistance, the dispatcher should attempt to find out as much information as possible about the incident, and the previous history of the parties involved. The operator should communicate this information to the responding officers. The following information, in order of importance, should be gathered as time and circumstances allow: The nature of the incident? The address? Apartment number? Left or right side? Business name? Has anyone been injured? Is an ambulance needed? Are weapons involved? If yes, what kind? A telephone number for the caller? Is the suspect present? Suspect s name? Describe the suspect and, if not present, his/her whereabouts. Is the suspect under the influence of drugs or alcohol? If yes, what substance? Are children present? Does the victim have an ex parte or protective order against the suspect? Is the caller the victim or a witness? Has the victim been sexually assaulted? The telecommunicator should not ask the victim if she is willing to press charges, or prosecute the case. Any comment which places the responsibility for enforcement action with the victim is inappropriate. VICTIM SAFETY The safety of the domestic violence victim, whether the threat is immediate or remote, should be the ultimate concern of the operator. If the caller is the victim, the dispatcher should keep her on the line as long as possible and tell her that the officers are on their way and when they should arrive. The operator should advise the victim to ensure her safety by remaining on the 911 line until officers arrive, waiting at a neighbor s house, or convenience store, or simply leaving the residence if the batterer returns. If the operator notes an abrupt change in the caller s responses, it may indicate that the offender has returned to the victim s location. The operator may be able to obtain more information by asking the caller to respond with simple yes and no questions, or in code. For example, If the suspect has come back in the room, say a number between one and five; or, on a scale from one to five, with five being the worst, how threatened do you feel? If the caller is a witness to a domestic incident in progress, the dispatcher should keep the caller on the line and relay ongoing information to the responding officers. If the dispatcher has immediate access to police records, they should review those records to identify the number of previous domestic violence related calls logged to that address, the existence of a protection order, outstanding warrants, and whether the suspect is out on bond or on probation. That information should be radioed to the responding officers. Telecommunicators should periodically check the safety of the responding officers at the scene as they would on any other potentially life-threatening call. All 911 tapes should be maintained and catalogued because the recordings may be vital evidence in a criminal case. Agencies should devise a systematic method for officers or detectives to review the 911 tape when a criminal case is pending. 1
13 THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MODEL PROTOCOL PURPOSE This document establishes a standardized protocol for effective response to domestic violence related calls. It recognizes that domestic violence differs from other crimes because of the intimate relationship between the victim and the accused. Domestic violence victims may require extra assistance to ensure their safety. Notwithstanding that difference, officers should respond to domestic violence as they would any crime, by pursuing the criminal remedies appropriate to the offense. Physical arrest is the preferred response to every domestic violence situation where an arrest is legally permissible. DEFINITIONS Domestic Violence Based on the North Carolina legal definition of domestic violence in NCGS. 50-B, this protocol defines domestic violence as abuse committed in any intimate relationship, including: spouses or former spouses persons who are, or were living together persons who have a child in common persons who have, or had a dating relationship Domestic violence for the purposes of this protocol does not include family violence such as violent behavior against children or parents, or violence between individuals living together in a situation in which the relationship is not considered intimate-- such as a dormitory or rooming arrangement. Abuse Patterns of abuse may include: sexual assault; stalking; property crimes; violation of a court order; criminal trespass; intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily injury; or, placing another person in reasonable fear of imminent bodily injury to him/herself or another. The legal remedies may differ based on the type of intimate relationship and the type of crime. Officers should take whatever action is appropriate and authorized within the confines of the law to ensure every victim of domestic violence is afforded equal protection. TRAINING All officers should receive annual in-service training on domestic violence to inform officers of: Domestic violence laws Departmental policy and procedures Dynamics of domestic violence Investigative techniques Additional training should include written bulletins, videotapes, verbal reminders, and updates during assemblies. The Chief of Police, Sheriff, or his designee, should review the department s training policies annually and make any revisions deemed necessary. RESPONSE PROCEDURE I. Initial Contact A. Approach. At least two officers should respond to the scene of any domestic violence call that is in progress or has just occurred. However, since the availability of two officers is not always an option, individual agencies should establish their own policies and procedures for one- and two-officer responses to domestic violence calls. Officers should employ standard precautionary measures in approaching the scene of the incident, including: parking away from the residence, waiting for backup, and, checking the outside of the residence for assailants. B. Entry. The officers should request entry into the home and ask to see the person who is the subject of the call. If the person who called the police is someone other than the victim, the police should not reveal the caller s name or whereabouts. If access to the victim is refused, officers should be persistent about seeing and speaking alone with the victim. The officer should ask the dispatcher to contact the caller by phone, if the caller is the victim. If entry is still refused, a supervisor should be advised of the situation. The officers may decide to do one of the following: 2
14 1. If there is any evidence to indicate that a crime has occurred, the officers will not leave the scene without speaking to the victim. Evidence could include the condition of the scene, or the state of the person who is speaking with the officers. 2. If the officer has reason to believe that serious injury has occurred or may occur if the officers leave, the officers will not leave the scene. 3. In some circumstances forced entry, pursuant to NCGS. 15A-285, may be necessary and appropriate in order to save life or prevent bodily harm. Under NCGS , an officer is authorized to force entry into a house to prevent the commission of a felony therein. If time allows, officers will contact a supervisor before forced entry is pursued. 4. If the officers leave, they should drive by later to observe any further disturbance. 5. If the officers remain to observe, they should move to public property and observe the premises from that location. C. Contact. Once inside the residence, the officer should immediately: 1. Identify potential weapons 2. Separate the victim and the assailant 3. Assess injuries (including inquiry about possible internal injuries and other injuries which are not readily visible, such as strangulation). Notify EMS if needed. 4. Separate witnesses from the victim and the accused, keeping them out of hearing range to avoid influencing their statements. II. On-Scene Investigation A. Interview. The responding officer should interview the victim and the assailant separately. The officer should ensure the victim s safety and privacy by interviewing the victim in an area out of sight and hearing range of the assailant, witnesses and bystanders. In questioning, the officer should: 1. Use supportive interview techniques 2. Ask the victim about previous domestic incidents, their frequency and severity 3. Not reveal to the victim what action he/she intends to take until all available information is evaluated 4. Ask the victim and the suspect if they are in pain, even if there are no visible injuries 5. Document victim s and suspect s condition, demeanor, relative size, and evidence of injury 6. If the victim does not speak English, a translator should be located as soon as possible to assist in investigating the incident. Although family members may volunteer to translate for the victim, an outside translator is preferred because the family member may attempt to cover up the suspect s actions and protect the family. B. Domestic Violence Protective Orders (DVPO). If the dispatcher has not advised the officer of the existence of a protective order, the officer should ask the victim whether there is such an order, and ask them to produce a copy. If the victim cannot produce a copy of a valid order but maintains that an order is in place, the officer should verify the existence and effective period of the order by checking the DCI registry using the defendant s name. They should confirm the order by: 1. Local orders: Contact the local Sheriff s Office, the civil clerk of courts or other departmental unit that maintains the DVPO registry. 2. Other jurisdiction: Contact the local law enforcement agency which should have a copy on file. (Ask the victim to specify the jurisdiction in which the order was filed and the appropriate agency to contact.) If an order is verified, an immediate arrest may be mandatory. (See DVPO Arrests Section IV) C. Witnesses. Interview any witnesses as fully and as soon as circumstances allow. If the witnesses provide information about prior incidents, document such incidents to establish a pattern. 1. Document names, addresses and phone numbers of the witnesses for follow-up interviews or possible court testimony. 2. Check with neighbors if no witnesses are at the scene. D. Children. Children should be interviewed in an age-appropriate manner, preferably alone. If the child was present during the incident, or the victim was holding the child when the suspect inflicted an injury, possible child abuse charges may be appropriate. If the officer has cause to suspect any 3
15 child has been abused or neglected, the officer must report the case to the Department of Social Services in the county where the child resides, or was found. Even if the children did not witness the incident but were present in the home, officers should: 1. Document names and ages. 2. Document signs of trauma and any apparent healing of abuse wounds. 3. Photograph children if possible. 4. Document statements. E. Crime Scene. Officers should assess the scene of the incident, and note the disturbance of furniture, the presence of weapons, broken windows or doors, the presence of blood stains, etc. to corroborate the statements of the involved parties. If possible, the agency should notify the victim if the weapon is returned to the abuser. F. Seizing Weapons for Safekeeping If there is a weapon in the abuser s possession, which in the officer s judgment puts the victim at risk, the officer should seize the weapon for safekeeping. Weapons may be seized for safekeeping, whether or not an arrest is effected. III. The Arrest Decision The responding officer should arrest the assailant whenever an arrest is authorized, including warrantless arrest for certain domestic misdemeanors which did not occur in the officer s presence. If the officer decides not to arrest despite the existence of probable cause, a clear and compelling reason for such action, and the actions taken to ensure the safety of the victim must be documented in the written report of the incident. Warrantless Arrest for Domestic Violence Arrest is authorized without a warrant under NCGS. 15A-401, if an officer has probable cause to believe that a person has committed any of the following: A felony crime in or outside of his/her presence A misdemeanor crime committed in his/her presence A domestic violence crime committed outside of his/her presence, that is one of the following: Simple Assault 14-33(a) Assault on a Female 14-33(c)(2) Assault with a Deadly Weapon 14-33(c)(1) Assault Inflicting Serious Injury 14-33(c)(1) Domestic Criminal Trespass Warrantless arrest is only applicable for domestic violence cases in which the victim and the perpetrator are of the opposite sex and are former or current spouses, or former or current live-in partners. Arrest for Other Relationships In cases of domestic violence in which the victim and the perpetrator have a dating relationship or a child in common, but have never lived together, or are current or former household members of the same sex, the misdemeanor warrantless arrest statute does not apply. In such instances, if probable cause exists, the officer should seek a warrant from the magistrate prior to effecting the arrest. A. The arrest decision is the responsibility of the officer; therefore, the officer should not consider any of the following factors, except as they relate to the elements of the crime: 1. Victim s opposition to arrest or claims of being unwilling to prosecute 2. Any speculation that the victim may not follow through with prosecution 3. Concerns about the financial consequences of arrest 4. Speculation that the arrest may not lead to conviction 5. Relationship or marital status of the parties(i.e. not married, separated, pending divorce, etc.) 6. Denial by either party that the abuse occurred when there is evidence of domestic violence 7. Verbal assurances that the violence will cease 8. Racial, cultural, social, political or professional background, or the sexual orientation of either the victim or accused 9. Location of the incident, i.e. public or private 10. Injuries are not visible Officers should not advise victims of domestic violence that they may press or drop charges. If a victim maintains that prosecution is not desired, the victim should be told that the decision to prosecute is made by the District Attorney. The officer should emphasize to the victim and to the accused as well, that the arrest is the State s decision, not the victim s. B. Injury to Both Parties. If visible bodily injury exists on both involved parties, the officer should follow these procedures before making an arrest: 4
16 1. Determine if one of the parties was acting in self-defense. If so, arrest only the other party; Definition of self-defense: A person is entitled to use a reasonable amount of force to protect themselves from an assault. A person must have a reasonable fear of bodily injury to justify the use of force. A person may not use more than necessary force nor continue the force once the threat has ceased or been withdrawn. Self-defense is often more difficult to determine in cases of domestic violence and requires careful investigation. In cases where a history of domestic violence exists between the parties, an initial strike by the battered person is more than likely self-defense. The experiences of battered persons may lead them to believe that such action was necessary to defend themselves from an impending violent attack, similar to a law enforcement officer's use of force based on the officer's experience and knowledge. In that situation, the law does not consider the battered person to be an aggressor at all: they may strike first to prevent being struck. 2. If neither party can be determined to have acted in self-defense, decide if one of the parties was the primary aggressor in the violent incident. If so, arrest only this party. a) Definition of Primary Aggressor. The primary aggressor is the party who is responsible for the perpetuation of the violence, not necessarily who initiated it in one particular incident. Officers should consider the intent of the law to protect victims of domestic violence from continuing abuse. b) Initial Strike. In cases where a history of domestic violence exists between the parties, an initial strike by the battered person may be completely justified in selfdefense.(see Self-Defense section above.) c) Relative Severity of the Injuries. In some cases involving a history of domestic violence, a battered person may commit a minor assault on the batterer, and the batterer responds with excessive force. For example, a battered woman scratches her husband, and the batterer responds by blackening both of her eyes and breaking her arm. In that situation, the initial scratch might not be justified in self-defense, but the batterer is clearly the primary aggressor and should be the only person arrested. (If the batterer wishes to pursue charges over the initial scratch, he or she can still request the magistrate to issue criminal process.) An officer should closely evaluate the following elements to determine who is the primary aggressor: a) Evidence from the involved persons-- injuries, statements, etc. b) Evidence from witnesses of the domestic abuse c) Self-defense wounds i. Aggressor may have scratches on arms and hands or bite marks on the chest or arm ii. Victim may have bruises on forearms, scratches on his/her own neck, bilateral injuries, etc. d) Existence of a DVPO e) Possession of weapons f) Property destroyed by one party g) Relative severity of injuries h) One party physically larger or stronger i) History of violence by one of the parties against the other or against other people j) One party is usually the aggressor A determination as to who the primary aggressor is should not necessarily include who started a verbal argument, since verbal provocation is not a justifiable cause for assaultive behavior. 3. If neither has acted in self-defense and the responding officer cannot determine either as a primary aggressor, call another officer or a supervisor to determine if both parties, or either, should be arrested. C. Dual Arrest. Arrest of both parties in a disturbance where domestic violence is present may trivialize the seriousness of the situation and potentially increase the danger to the victim. True mutual combat is rarely present. In only 3-5% of cases are both parties equal combatants. Dual arrest is not encouraged; a supervisor must be present before a mutual arrest is made. 5
17 Victims often inflict injuries upon a suspect while defending herself from the suspect s aggression. Often cross-complaints are falsely made by an offender to avoid an arrest. In cases of mutual combat where an officer cannot determine the aggressor, probable cause may not exist for any arrest. An officer should document all findings and justifications for making a mutual arrest in the body of the written report. IV. Violation of Protective Orders A. Warrantless Arrest. NCGS. 50B-4 requires warrantless arrest in cases where there is a court order in effect and there is probable cause to believe that the suspect violated the order under any of the following provisions: 1. Excluding the suspect from the residence occupied by the victim; 2. Directing the suspect to refrain from: a) Assaulting, threatening, abusing, or following the other party; b) Harassing the other party by visiting the home or workplace, or by other means; or, c) Otherwise interfering with the alleged victim. The officer must arrest the perpetrator regardless of the present relationship or circumstances between the victim and the perpetrator. Even if the perpetrator has moved back into the residence named on the DVPO, or the victim has invited the perpetrator to his/her residence, the officer must arrest once the active order is confirmed. Only a subsequent court order dismissing the DVPO can nullify the enforcement of that order. B. Arrest Pursuant to a Warrant. As of December 1, 1997, any violation of a protective order is a Class A1 misdemeanor.(ncgs 50B-4A) An officer may seek a criminal warrant for any violation, and make an arrest pursuant to that warrant. C. Ex Parte Orders. An ex parte order is a temporary order that is typically valid for up to ten days, or until the set court date for the DVPO hearing at which both parties are present. To enforce an ex parte order, the officer should: 1. Confirm the validity of the order by checking the date on the Notice of Hearing. If the court date is expired, ask the victim if she obtained any further order from the court at the hearing. a) If the victim did, she may have a full DVPO. See Section D. b) If she did not go back to court, explain to the victim that the ex parte is invalid and the entire case may have been dismissed; she may need to re-file. 2. If the order is not expired, confirm that the restrained party has been served with the ex parte order. a) If the restrained party was served, enforce as a domestic violence protective order. b) If the restrained party has not been served: i. Attempt service ii. Inform the suspect of the order iii. Document actions in a written report D. Other Jurisdiction Protective Orders. Protective orders from another jurisdiction within North Carolina or from another state should be honored as any other facially valid protective order according to the federal Violence Against Women Act of 1994.(VAWA 18 USC 2265) The out of state order must be registered with a North Carolina clerk of courts office to be enforced in North Carolina. Officers should check with the issuing jurisdiction to verify the activity of the order if the victim cannot produce a valid copy. If the suspect crosses state lines to violate an order, a federal charge is applicable in addition to the state offense. (See Federal Crimes Section V.) Even if an out of state order has not been registered with a NC clerk of court, officers should look for the underlying crime in the violation and charge the perpetrator with that crime, e.g. trespassing, assault, etc. E. DVPO Verification. The officer should transport a hard copy of the DVPO to the Magistrate s Office for processing with the arrestee. Officer may photocopy the victim s copy, or copy the order on file with the agency. Before placing the subject in custody, the officer should check on the order to confirm: 1. What is the date on the order? Its expiration date? 2. What are the terms of the order? Are there any exceptions written in the order in regard to child 6
18 custody or the like that may make the arrest improper? (e.g. The judge has written in exceptions to the trespass order for visiting the kids.) If the officer cannot verify the existence and status of the order, the victim should be informed how to file for a warrant for a violation of a protective order with the local magistrate and how to get another copy of the order from the civil clerk of courts office. The officer should explain that the victim needs to keep a copy with her at all times. F. Enforcement When Suspect Is Not On the Scene. If probable cause exists that a violation has occurred and the suspect is not on the scene, officers should attempt to locate the suspect in the immediate area or any other place identified by the victim. If located at any time, the suspect can be picked up immediately without a warrant. (Note that without a warrant, forced entry is not appropriate unless other exigent circumstances exist.) If the suspect is not located within a reasonable time, the officer should obtain a warrant for the criminal violation of the protective order, and for any underlying crimes, such as assault or trespass. (See Section VI part E, Suspect Not on the Scene.) G. Filing Charges for On-Scene Arrest. If the suspect has violated the order by committing an additional crime, such as trespass or assault, the officer should file the criminal charges for this new offense. Additionally, the officer should file criminal charges for the violation of the protective order. H. Disposition of Personal Property. Officers should not ordinarily become involved in the disposition of personal property. Violations of a protective order regarding the allocation of personal property such as furniture, cars or other items may be enforced through the civil order to show cause process or through a criminal warrant process. In the absence of a warrant or probable cause, the officer should remain neutral and be concerned primarily with maintaining the peace and safety of those present. V. Federal Crimes A. Violence Against Women Act. The Safe Homes for Women Section of VAWA outlines federal crimes related to domestic violence in the following circumstances: 1. Crossing State Lines to Injure an Intimate Partner. The suspect crosses state lines with the intent to injure, harass or intimidate an intimate partner and such action involves a crime of violence that results in bodily injury. [18 USC. 2261(a)(1)] 2. Forcing an Intimate Partner to Cross State Lines. The suspect causes a spouse or intimate partner to cross state lines by force, coercion, duress or fraud where such action also results in bodily injury to the victim. [18 USC. 2261(a)(2)], or 3. Interstate Protection Order Violation. The suspect crosses state lines with the intent to violate a protection order, and thereafter acts to violate the order either in the issuing or another state. [18 USC. 2262(a)(1)] VAWA defines intimate partner to include: 1. A spouse, a former spouse, a person who shares a child in common with the abuser, and a person who cohabits, or has cohabited with the abuser as a spouse; and, 2. Any other person, similarly situated to a spouse, who is protected by the domestic or family violence laws of the State in which the injury occurred or where the victim resides. [18 USC 2266] The FBI and/or the U.S. Attorney s Office should be contacted in instances in which one of these federal crimes are committed against a victim as defined above. B. Firearms. 1. Interstate Shipping of Firearms. It is unlawful for any person who is the subject of an order for protection to ship or transport in interstate commerce, or possess in or affecting commerce, any firearm or ammunition; or to receive any firearm which has been shipped or transported interstate. [18 USC. 922 (g)8] 2. Possession of a Firearm. The Domestic Violence Offender Gun Ban, enacted September 10, 1996, prohibits any individuals, including law enforcement officers, convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence offenses from buying or possessing a firearm. [18 USC. 922 (g)9] The Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Agency should be contacted in such cases. 7
19 VI. Effecting the Arrest A. Juveniles. When the accused is less than 16 years of age, the provisions of this protocol are fully applicable, except that the juvenile shall be taken into custody, and processed pursuant to the Juvenile Act. B. Mental Illness/Substance Abuse. If, upon examination of the accused, the officer determines that a voluntary or involuntary commitment to a mental health facility is required, the officer should follow emergency commitment procedure according to departmental policy. The officer should not allow the possibility of mental illness or substance abuse to preclude a valid criminal arrest. C. Public Officials. Domestic disturbances involving prominent citizens, public officials or police officers may present particular difficulties for the responding officer. In such circumstances, the responding officer should request a supervisor come to the scene. The responding officer should take whatever action is necessary to protect the victim and detain the assailant, while waiting for the supervisor. The procedure followed upon arrival of the supervisor should be the same as it would be in any domestic incident. The status of the accused shall not influence the decision to arrest when probable cause exists. D. Arrestee Referral. In cases where the officer determines that an arrested person is under the supervision of the Division of Parole and Probation, the officer will notify that agency of the arrest. E. Suspect not on the Scene. Reasonable efforts should be made to locate the suspect in the area or in frequented places. If the suspect is not taken into custody, but a domestic crime was committed by the suspect, the officer is required to do one of the following: 1. Officer should obtain the warrant; or 2. When the officer cannot obtain the warrant because of lack of probable cause, assist the victim in obtaining a warrant by transporting or accompanying the victim to the Magistrate s Office and providing the necessary assistance; or, 3. Officer should obtain a supervisor s approval when seeking a warrant is not advisable under the existing circumstances. The reason for no arrest should be documented on an incident report. These actions must be completed either during the initial response or before the end of the officer s tour of duty. Reasonable efforts should be made to serve the warrant as soon as possible. Under no circumstances should an officer fail to prepare a crime report or fail to seek a warrant when probable cause exists simply because the suspect left the scene. F. Absence of Probable Cause The officer should still complete a full written report, even if an arrest is not authorized because of the absence of probable cause. The officer should explain to the victim why no arrest was made, and of the right to pursue a private complaint. (See Victim Safety Section IX) VII. Evidence Collection Whenever a crime is alleged to have been committed, the officer should collect relevant evidence and document the incident, regardless of whether an arrest is made at the scene. A. Excited Utterances. Record any spontaneous declarations or excited utterances made by the victim or the assailant. These statements are made by the victim while under the stress or excitement caused by a traumatic event. The officer must record the demeanor of the victim at the time, for such statements to be admissible as evidence. Any statement made by the suspect at any time, before or after arrest or Miranda, may potentially be used in court. B. Photographs. The officer should ensure that photos are taken of: 1. Visible injuries on the victim a) Old scars and fading bruises to establish pattern b) Fresh injury c) Hidden injuries concealed by clothing. An officer of the same sex as the victim should assist when possible in documenting these injuries. d) Follow-up photos should be taken hours after the incident. Bruises may not appear for several days after the assault. The officer should advise the victim to contact the police if injuries later appear. If possible, the officer should revisit the victim. 2. Visible injuries on the assailant 8
20 3. Children. If not present, inquire as to whether or not the children are at home. Ask to see the children and photograph, if possible. 4. Crime Scene a) Disarrayed or damaged furniture b) Empty alcohol containers c) Blood d) Broken doors, mirrors, dishes, windows or locks e) Any other potential evidence 5. Weapons used, or threatened to be used C. Evidence. The officer should collect and preserve all physical evidence necessary to support prosecution, including evidence substantiating the victim s injuries, articles that substantiate attack or pattern of abuse, and evidence recording the scene. Officers may want to diagram the crime scene. Evidence may include: 1. Weapons used or threatened to be used in the assault, even non-traditional weapons such as a telephone cord or broomstick. No weapons shall be returned to a perpetrator unless ordered by a court, following notice and opportunity to be heard by the District Attorney, or otherwise ordered at final disposition of charges. 2. Torn/bloody clothing 3. Destroyed property such as a phone ripped from the wall 4. Answering machine tapes, letters from suspect, etc., to establish a pattern and history of abuse. D. Crime Report. The officer should complete an offense incident report and a Domestic Violence Supplemental report for all incidents in which a domestic violence crime is alleged. For on-scene arrests, a copy of the report should be left at the Magistrate s Office with the booking sheet to assist judges at the bond hearing. Any other reports generated for such calls should be clearly marked Domestic Violence Incident as an aid to processing and identification of such cases. 1. Documentation on Offense Report. Officers should maintain objectivity in reporting. Avoid personal opinions. Document all of the following in the narrative of the report: a) Emotions and behaviors of victim, suspect and children b) Physical evidence c) Statements of victim, suspect and witnesses d) History of violence e) Sustained injuries f) Elements of all involved crimes g) Future contact number/address for victim h) Relationship of the parties Officers may want to diagram the crime scene to strengthen their testimony months later when the incident goes to trial. 2. No Alleged Crime. The officer should complete a short operations report for any call in which domestic violence is present or alluded to, regardless of whether there is an arrestable offense or an alleged crime at the time of the call. The officer should document the names of the involved parties, addresses, history of domestic violence, and action taken at the scene. 3. Confidentiality of Reports. Temporary relocation of a victim away from the residence, and the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses, as well as statements they made concerning the domestic incident, should not be released to any person other than an authorized law enforcement officer or other officer of the court for the conduct of official business. VIII. After the Arrest A. Elder Victims and Dependents. Circumstances may arise in which the accused is the sole caretaker of an elderly (60+) or disabled victim, and an arrest is warranted. Or, the victim may be the sole caretaker of a physically dependent elder, and cannot provide care due to hospitalization, etc. The officer should determine if the elder or disabled dependent is physically endangered by a preexisting medical condition or the removal of a caretaker. If so, the officer should ask for the name of a relative or friend who can be contacted to assist the elder. If no assistance is available, the officer should contact the local Department of Social Services, Adult Protective Services. The officer should remain with the elder until protective service workers arrive, or transport the elder to a medical facility or other appropriate place to wait. The officer should always advise the elder of protective services available in the community. B. Child Victims and Dependents. If the accused is arrested and the victim is unable to provide care to the children (e.g. due to 9
Creating an Effective Stalking Protocol
U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services Creating an Effective Stalking Protocol www.cops.usdoj.gov Creating an Effective Stalking Protocol Submitted by the National CenterMore information
A PROJECT MADE POSSIBLE by the CONRAD N. HILTON FOUNDATION FAMILY VIOLENCE: A MODEL STATE CODE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JUVENILE AND FAMILY COURT JUDGES MODEL CODE ON DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE Drafted byMore information
Consumer s Guide to New Jersey Law A Free Public Education Service from the New Jersey State Bar Foundation
Consumer s Guide to New Jersey Law A Free Public Education Service from the New Jersey State Bar Foundation One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1500 1-800-FREE LAW www.njsbf.org This bo okletMore information
POLICE MISCONDUCT IN SAN ANTONIO THE NEED FOR MORE ACCOUNTABILITY, TRANSPARENCY, AND RESPONSIVENESS A TEXAS CIVIL RIGHTS PROJECT 2011 HUMAN RIGHTS REPORT ACKNOWLEDGMENTS WE ARE INDEBTED TO JOANNE HEISEY,More information
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HANDBOOK for Police and Crown Prosecutors in Alberta
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HANDBOOK for Police and Crown Prosecutors in Alberta A Domestic Violence Handbook For Police Services and Crown Prosecutors in Alberta Prepared by: Alberta Justice and Solicitor GeneralMore information
INTRODUCTION. 1 In 2003 the the Office of Court Improvement developed a Dependency Benchbook, which
INTRODUCTION Education enhances the knowledge and skills of the judiciary and, therefore contributes to the administration of justice. 1 To further assist in the administration of justice the Office ofMore information
Punishing the Protectors: The Illinois Domestic Violence Act Remedy for Victims of Domestic Violence Against Police Misconduct
Punishing the Protectors: The Illinois Domestic Violence Act Remedy for Victims of Domestic Violence Against Police Misconduct Kathryn E. Litchman * Mentored by Judge Jesse G. Reyes ** I. INTRODUCTIONMore information
The author(s) shown below used Federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Justice and prepared the following final report:
The author(s) shown below used Federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Justice and prepared the following final report: Document Title: Author(s): Practical Implications of Current Intimate PartnerMore information
Support Group for Victims of Stalking
How to Start and Facilitate a Support Group for Victims of Stalking A program of About the Authors The Stalking Resource Center, a program of the National Center for Victims of Crime, was established inMore information
May-Iles Inquest Jury Recommendations
May-Iles Inquest Jury Recommendations July 1998 Inquest into the deaths of Arlene May and Randy Iles February 16 - July 2, 1998 IN THE MATTER OF: The Coroner's Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. 37 -and- IN THE MATTERMore information
Table of Contents RESPONDING TO ACCIDENTS AND COMPLAINTS OR TO ALLEGED OR SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE 19
1 Table of Contents INTRODUCTION 2 SECTION ONE: PRINCIPLES OF GOOD PRACTICE 4 SECTION TWO: PROTECTING AND PROMOTING CHILDREN S RIGHTS 5 SECTION THREE: DEVELOPING SAFE RECRUITMENT PRACTICES 8 SECTION FOUR:More information
Workplace violence prevention
Introduction Workplace violence prevention A comprehensive guide for employers and employees 1.1 The problem of workplace violence There has been little research conducted and reported that investigatesMore information
Child Victim-Witness Protocol
Child Victim-Witness Protocol by the Child Victim-Witness Task Force Originally developed June 1991 Updated March 2000 Acknowledgments The following members of the Child Victim-Witness Task Force spentMore information
Historical Perspective:
She hit me, too Identifying the Primary Aggressor: A Prosecutor s Perspective Gael B. Strack, San Diego Assistant City Attorney 1200 Third Avenue, Suite 700, San Diego, California 92101 email@example.com information
NOT ALONE. The First Report of the White House Task Force to Protect Students From Sexual Assault
NOT ALONE The First Report of the White House Task Force to Protect Students From Sexual Assault April 2014 President Barack Obama signs the Presidential Memorandum establishing the White House Task ForceMore information
Commissioned by the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency
Commissioned by the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency The preparation of this White Paper was supported by Pennsylvania CommissionMore information
WHAT TO DO IN A PSYCHIATRIC CRISIS IN INDIANA NAMI Indiana P.O. Box 22697 Indianapolis, Indiana 46222 1-800-677-6442 www.namiindiana.org TABLE of CONTENTS Preface..............................................................More information
Adopting in the United States
Chapter 01 4/16/08 1:37 PM Page 1 C h a p t e r 1 Adopting in the United States Adoption is the permanent legal transfer of full parental rights from one parent or set of parents to another parent or setMore information
Protective Intelligence Threat Assessment Investigations
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE BJA OFFICE OF NIJ OJJDP OVC BJS JUSTICE PROGRAMS U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs National Institute of Justice & Protective Intelligence Threat Assessment InvestigationsMore information
A GUIDE TO MENTAL ILLNESS AND THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM A SYSTEMS GUIDE FOR FAMILIES AND CONSUMERS National Alliance on Mental Illness Department of Policy and Legal Affairs 2107 Wilson Blvd., SuiteMore information
Victims Witnesses. Handbook. www.sheriff.org
Victims Witnesses Handbook www.sheriff.org VICTIMS & WITNESSES HANDBOOK Referral Telephone Numbers The Broward Sheriff s Office (BSO) will be as helpful as possible to you during the progress of your case.More information
BAIL FAIL: Why the U.S. Should End. the Practice of USING Money for BaiL
BAIL FAIL: Why the U.S. Should End the Practice of USING Money for BaiL JUSTICE POLICY INSTITUTE SEPTEMBER 2012 2 justice policy institute CONTENTS 3 PART 1: INTRODUCTION 5 PART 2: BACKGROUND AND CONTEXTMore information
Eleventh Office of Independent Review Annual Report
Eleventh Office of Independent Review Annual Report Michael J. Gennaco Chief Attorney Robert Miller Julie Ruhlin Deputy Chief Attorneys Cynthia L. Hernandez Angelica A. Samaniego Diana M. Teran Bita ShastyMore information
Attorney-General s Department
Attorney-General s Department FOREWORD Victims play an important role in the criminal justice system. Without their participation by, for instance, giving evidence in a court, it would not be possibleMore information
Dear Colleagues, Please find attached a report from the conference, Reducing the Risk of Lethal Violence. Collaboration in Threat Assessment &
Dear Colleagues, Please find attached a report from the conference, Reducing the Risk of Lethal Violence. Collaboration in Threat Assessment & Risk Management: From Theory to Practice held in HamiltonMore information
Prevention and Protection. Services. Family Handbook
PPS 5137 Prevention and Protection Services Family Handbook - 1 - Introduction A Message for You Over the past few years, child welfare services in Kansas have placed added value on the voice and involvementMore information
Batterer Intervention Programs REPORT. Special JUNE 03. Where Do We Go From Here?
JUNE 03 U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs National Institute of Justice Special REPORT Batterer Intervention Programs Where Do We Go From Here? U.S. Department of Justice Office ofMore information
No secrets: Guidance on developing and implementing multi-agency policies and procedures to protect vulnerable adults from abuse
No secrets: Guidance on developing and implementing multi-agency policies and procedures to protect vulnerable adults from abuse There can be no secrets and no hiding place when it comes to exposing theMore information
Investigation of the Ferguson Police Department
Investigation of the Ferguson Police Department United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division March 4, 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. REPORT SUMMARY... 1 II. BACKGROUND... 6 III. FERGUSON LAW ENFORCEMENTMore information
John Howard Society. Criminal Justice Education
Youth Criminal Justice Act HANDBOOK John Howard Society Criminal Justice Education Youth Criminal Justice Act Handbook Introduction... 4 To whom does the Act apply?... 4 To whom does the Act not apply?...More information


text:
If you're already a fling member, click below or browse through sexy members that are located near you in East Montpelier, Vermont.
Check out our wildly popular featured Fling members, or browse all other members in East Montpelier in the next section.
40 yrs old
Meredith, NH, US
24 yrs old
Montpelier, VT, US
31 yrs old
Gilford, NH, US
25 yrs old
Morrisville, VT, US
Explore members in other cities
Join thousands of other flirty, sexy members that are interested in meeting you. Browse below or sign in to view all members.
33 yrs old
South Londonderry, VT, US
31 yrs old
Albany, NY, US
33 yrs old
Dover, NH, US
40 yrs old
Waitsfield, VT, US
24 yrs old
Rochester, NH, US
31 yrs old
Greenfield, MA, US
36 yrs old
Merrimack, NH, US
33 yrs old
Walpole, NH, US
37 yrs old
Hyde Park, VT, US
41 yrs old
Contoocook, NH, US
33 yrs old
West Lebanon, NH, US
42 yrs old
Burlington, VT, US
28 yrs old
Dover, NH, US
34 yrs old
Lincoln, NH, US
41 yrs old
Nashua, NH, US
21 yrs old
Morrisville, VT, US
Traveling or live outside of the country? Check out members in our other popular countries and find a hook up on the road.
Top Fling Members
24 yrs old
Fairfax, VT, US
45 yrs old
Mount Holly, VT, US
24 yrs old
Montreal-Nord, QC, CA
25 yrs old
Manchester, NH, US
31 yrs old
Belmont, NH, US
40 yrs old
Richmond, VT, US
26 yrs old
Manchester, NH, US
44 yrs old
Claremont, NH, US

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Hi All,
Would you please tell me whether SilkTest can recognize objects of an application developed in C#? What extentions we need to load for testing of this application? Thank you.
Hi Automation123 ,
You must have a Silktest version that have .net components (Silktest 2006 are including, in less Silktest versions must buy .net Silktest component with licence).
With regards,
Thank you nelumoldovan49. I appreciate your help. Do I need any other add-ins. Only the .net components will help. Thank you
You should be OK to test your C# application with silktest 2006.... no other add ins required
Forum Rules