Someone to Talk to, The Role of Victim Advocates in Domestic Violence Policing Strategies

• In Event: Police Approaches to Restorative Justice, Domestic Violence, and At-Risk Young Fathers

Abstract

Understanding how police change strategies to deal with domestic violence may offer law enforcement agencies valuable information relevant to implementing policies and overcoming obstacles. In terms of organizational research in law enforcement, an important question that is often overlooked is the role of victim advocates. Studying changing police strategies helps develop understanding of the interactions between victim advocates and the police. Academics and practitioners often overlook victim advocates. Advocates, however provide invaluable information to victims. Finally, victim advocates offer relevant information to understanding interactions between victim’s advocates and the police. The present study worked within a case study design and an organizational change theoretical framework revealing the path taken by the Trenton, New Jersey Police Department (TPD) to change domestic violence strategies and carry out these policies. The question explored is, what is the perceived utility of domestic violence strategies in assisting victims of domestic violence.

Author

• Michele Muni, Holy Family University