NCJ Number
96233
Date Published
1984
Length
120 pages
Annotation
The response of Canada's criminal justice system to the problem of wife assault is examined.
Abstract
The seriousness of the problem is documented by Canadian data indicating that 750,000 couples have 1 or more violent disputes each year. Although estimates suggest that fewer than 10 percent of violent domestic incidents are reported to police, domestic dispute calls make up the largest category of requests for police service. Arrest rates for wife battering in Canada are low; issues surrounding the argument for increased arrest rates are considered, and supporting studies of the deterrent effect of increased arrest rates are urged. Additionally, the question of whether all police should be trained in intervention skills is addressed. A generalist/specialist model currently used in London, Ontario, is recommended; the use of information cards by police officers is suggested. These cards should be given to battered wives and should provide phone numbers for shelters, transition houses, and legal assistance. Legal problems encountered by women who press charges against their assailants are considered, and the need for clear policy guidelines and special training about wife assault for professionals in the criminal justice system is cited. The outcome of the court process is also addressed, and therapeutic groups for assaultive males are recommended. Some models for criminal justice system response to wife assault are proposed, and some innovative American programs that deal with wife assault are examined. Included are 79 references. Suggested research directions are appended.