The following are some
of the tactics of power and control which confront victims of police
domestic violence.
Weapons and Force
Constant presence of weapons in home. Uses service
weapon, baton, handcuffs, other "tools of trade" in abuse. Uses arm
locks, choke holds to subdue with no marks or bruises.
Psychological Threats
Threatens to hurt family, friends. Knows how to
commit perfect crime and criminals can do his dirty work. Threatens to
kill her and himself if she costs him his job.
Personal Impact
Friends, family, service providers doubt her
credibility. She is part of police family. High potential for lethality.
Loss of privacy and protection: phone taps, surveillance, tracking
devices on car.
Officer as Victim
Greater potential for lethality. No one believes
officer can be victim. Ostracized by colleagues, no longer trusted,
broke Code of Silence. Shelter and service providers not trained or fear
to provide help.
Training Advantages
What makes him a good officer makes him a dangerous
abuser. Intimidates by presence alone: uniform, stance, voice. Uses
command interrogation voice to intimidate, threaten. Trained to use body
as weapon.
Police Response
He is the police. RO's automatically respond to
"officer in distress". Often no department policy so colleagues use own
discretion. Her word against his as a police officer.
Knowledge of Law and Court
He knows court procedures and personnel. Presents
self well in court: knows what to say and not to say. No one expects him
to perjure as he's sworn to uphold law.
Lack of Shelter and Resources
Usual support untrained, unwilling, unavailable to
help. Abuser knows shelter locations. Friends and family refuse to help
for fear or she refuses to endanger them.
