NCJ Number
211551
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 53 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2005 Pages: 117-121
Date Published
September 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article presents a three-step process for implementing a three-step program for a more proactive response in the intervention of domestic violence for police families.
Abstract
By its very nature, the criminal justice system is reactive. Contemporary criminal justice domestic violence intervention is similar. However, reactive intervention (after the crisis has occurred) must become more proactive. Punitive policies and programs should be evaluated, as well as proactive intervention, preventative family counseling, and other support services must be incorporated with reactive punitive sanctions to prevent future domestic violence incidents. This article presents a three-step program for this and specifically battering interventions for police families. This three-step program includes: (1) educational and psychological testing and extensive background checks; (2) available psychological and educational counseling on family conflict and battering behavior; and (3) swift and just punitive sanctions. The three-step process for implementing this three-step program is presented and includes: (1) ensure appropriate pre-employment intelligence and psychological testing; (2) ensure that the diverse social agencies providing interventions for the department have in place a protocol that documents policies and procedures designed to improve their coordination and cooperation; and (3) investigations into allegations of law enforcement involved domestic violence must be handled by law enforcement agencies outside the department. The golden rule is that the leader of the law enforcement agency must be fully committed to change and be personally in charge of the change process if change is to occur.