Police officer-involved domestic violence FAQs | Abuse of power

Advocate FAQs

EXCERPT from When the Batterer Is a Law Enforcement Officer: A Guide for Advocates (Complete book in PDF)

Does a victim have the right to bring an advocate with her when she meets with the department?: Generally, a victim can bring someone with her when she meets the department, but there may be collective bargaining agreements or other procedures that limit who can accompany her, and when. Advocates also need to consider confidentiality issues.
How can the advocate help prepare a woman for reporting the abuse to the department?: You can discuss possible reactions to her complaint so she is prepared. Let her know that some police administrators may not understand the dynamics of domestic violence. The chief, sheriff or other supervisor might defend the officer and accuse her of exaggeration or vindictiveness.; Help her prepare a clear statement of what she would like to have happen as a result of her complaint, when possible link it to the department’s policies and standards of conduct. Provide information about potential disciplinary actions.
What should the advocate do when accompanying a victim to a meeting with the department?: Your role depends on the level of participation the victim wants you to have, and any restrictions that the department places on your participation. You must discuss the role she wants you to play before the meeting. Check with your staff attorney about confidentiality issues. Generally, an advocate who accompanies a woman is a witness, not a participant in the proceedings. As such, you are there to provide silent support, and later to provide a reality check about what occurred. You can assist her in making notes of what is said and promised.
Can or should an advocate tape a meeting on the victim’s behalf?: The victim can request to tape any meetings with the department. This can mean a less candid response, however. You should carefully consider the potential benefits and consequences of taping. When the department records a meeting — a common procedure in internal investigations — the victim should ask for a copy.
What kind of notes should the victim and advocate keep?: After the meeting, you both should write down (or tape record) everything you remember about the meeting. Record who was present, what was said, the tone of voice, and impressions about the supervisors’ attitudes. Write down what the chief or other supervisor promised to do in response to her complaint.
What kind of hazards, benefits, and strategies are involved in the victim going to the media?: Media attention can be very perilous ground. Women are not necessarily safer if they are in the public eye, particularly in cases involving police, public officials, or other high-profile abusers. Media attention can also be humiliating and frightening for children. If a woman wants to use the media to tell her story, talk through the possible risks and benefits, never underestimate the danger, and have a safety plan in place.
What kind of hazards, benefits, and strategies are involved in the victim considering a lawsuit?: Victims need to know that lawsuits against law enforcement agencies are very difficult, lengthy and expensive. What can seem to be a solid claim of “failure to protect” or “denial of civil rights” can be difficult to prove and consume her financial and emotional resources. The department may respond to the threat of a suit by shutting down further communication. Threatening to sue should be a last resort she considers with guidance from an attorney.