When the police attend a home in response to a domestic violence incident, their primary goal is to ensure the immediate safety and well-being of all individuals involved. Here’s an outline of what typically happens during police intervention:
- Police will assess the situation to determine the immediate threat or danger.
- The alleged victim and perpetrator are separated to give statements.
- Police will look for physical evidence of abuse or struggle, including damaged property or physical injuries. This may include looking through the house.
- Witnesses will also be asked to give a statement.
- If there are injuries, police may provide immediate first aid and call for a medical assistant. They may also transport any non-critical injuries to the hospital.
- In some cases, the police will issue a protection order, temporarily preventing the alleged perpetrator from contacting or approaching the victim.
- Police will share more information about seeking legal advice or support services with both parties.
- Police often follow up after an incident, including visiting the house or contacting the victim.
If police attend a home where it is alleged a partner or family member is physically or otherwise abusive, they may issue a Police Order. A police order can last up to 72 hours and contains many of the same conditions included in a long-term Family Violence Restraining or Protection Order. A police order prevents the perpetrator from being within a certain distance from you or trying to communicate in any way until a longer-term Family Violence Restraining or Protection Order can be applied.
Learn more about Family Violence Restraining or Protection Order.