NCJ Number
203010
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 51 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2003 Pages: 132-140
Date Published
October 2003
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the prevalence of domestic violence by police officers and the importance of having a clearly stated departmental policy for addressing this crime.
Abstract
Relevant research clearly indicates that domestic violence is at least as common in police families as in the general public, and possibly two to four times more likely. Police departments must have a policy on officer-involved domestic violence, and they must take proactive and persistent steps to implement the policy. The policy should be clear and detailed and be disseminated regularly to employees. The policy should also be taught in ongoing training programs. The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has developed a Model Policy for this issue. It is comprehensive and can be adapted for use in any type of law enforcement agency. The Model Policy makes it clear that all officers, supervisors, and managers are responsible for identifying, investigating, and responding to domestic violence crimes even when they are committed by a fellow officer. Officers must be made aware that a conviction for domestic violence or even a restraining order against them has serious consequences that extend to their careers, since a section of the 1994 Crime Bill prohibits individuals from possessing a firearm while a protective, restraining, or harassment order is in effect. Departments must ensure officers that all laws pertinent to domestic violence situations will be enforced by the department and that there will be no biased or favorable treatment because they are police officers.