Examining Officer Arrest Decisions in Intimate Partner Stalking Cases

• In Event: Victimology Research-to-Practice: Contemporary Issues and Innovations

Abstract

Stalking is a difficult crime to investigate, particularly when it occurs within the context of intimate partner violence (IPV). Many of the behaviors offenders use to instill fear in victims are not necessarily illegal and are often overlooked by responding officers. Previous studies have highlighted the need to better understand officer decision-making processes in stalking cases. To address this gap in the literature, this study uses five years of IPV cases from Rhode Island police departments to examine the factors that influence officers’ decision to arrest offenders for stalking within the context of IPV cases. Implications and recommendations for future research avenues will be discussed.

Authors

• Patrick Brady, West Georgia University

• Brad W. Reyns, Weber State University