Advanced Response to Domestic Violence

Bozeman, MT

DATE/TIME TBD

TRAINING MODULES

Introduction and Overview

  • Law Enforcement Leadership Welcome
  • Goals and Objectives
  • Introductions

Lethality of DV Response (Response Part 1)

This section will cover the specific reasons anyone involved in the investigation or handling of a domestic violence case must be aware of the potential lethality present in every situation., The long-term potential for danger is emphasized and reinforced with specific examples. Also presented and discussed is an innovative new theory on how and why domestic violence offenders are a danger to everyone. This eye-opening demonstration of lethality comes with real-life situations and makes it impossible to ignore the danger of these offenders.

  • Important Role of Call-Taker
  • Identifying Critical Information
  • Risk Assessment for Responding Officers
  • The Unrecognized Lethality of DV Offenders

Self Defense – Predominant Aggressor Determination

Deciding if an arrest should be made and who to arrest is a constant challenge for law enforcement. This will cover what components should be considered, how to factor in self-defense claims by either party, and why making a predominant aggressor determination prior to the arrest decision is critical. Also covered is how to proceed to trial without victim participation, what evidence is needed to make this possible, and how the first responders, through their investigations can make it possible to successfully prosecute these offenders based on evidence gathered at the crime scene.

  • Self Defense
  • Predominant Aggressor

Strangulation

This section discusses the reality of how lethal strangulation can be, even days after an incident. Information will be provided as to why there are often not visible injuries and why responders should be sure that medical assistance is available. In the absence of visible injury, many signs and symptoms may be present. These signs and symptoms will be discussed and presented using real audio/video examples. A video of an actual strangulation will be presented to thoroughly demonstrate the information presented.

  • The Lethality of Strangulation
  • Minimization
  • Strangulation Injuries
  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Questions to Ask
  • Video – Actual Strangulation Clip

Behind Closed Doors

In this section you will be introduced to Susan Still, the survivor of a long term domestic violence relationship. The abuse Susan faced was documented by her young son who was forced to videotape the attack. The presenters have a personal insight into this particular relationship and the events that are not only depicted in the video, but also the events leading up to the video to Susan’s present day story of Survival. After discussion about Susan’s situation, the topic transitions as to how the issues she faced are the same in nearly every relationship involving domestic violence including the barriers a victim faces when trying to leave and the dangers that are faced each day.

  • Susan’s Story
  • Barriers to Leaving