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A Shift in Domestic Violence Response: Why Victims Shouldn't Be Arrested
Recent recommendations from the Long Beach Office of Police Oversight have called for significant changes in how the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) responds to domestic violence incidents. The oversight body found troubling cases where both victims and aggressors were arrested simply because their stories conflicted, a situation that could have been resolved with in-depth investigations.
A Troubling Pattern of Dual Arrests
In their report, the oversight commission examined 100 complaints against the LBPD and identified three specific incidents where officers arrested both individuals involved. This practice, according to Francine Kerridge, the director of the Office of Police Oversight, may deter future victims from seeking help. “This approach to assaults is unacceptable,” she said. The LBPD’s actions in these cases have raised concerns about potentially exacerbating the trauma that victims already face. Kent Wallace-Meggs, executive director of WomenShelter of Long Beach, emphasized that arresting the victim can reinforce the fear they are attempting to escape.
Consequences of Misidentifying Victims
When law enforcement fails to determine who the actual aggressor is, it robs victims of critical protections, such as emergency protective orders. These orders can provide a crucial five to seven days of safety, during which a victim can pursue a restraining order that can protect them for up to five years. Arresting both parties creates a misleading narrative of mutual conflict, complicating the legal responses and potentially dragging children into the fray if investigations by child services are initiated.
The Need for Comprehensive Investigations
The findings of this oversight commission highlight the need for a careful and thorough approach in emotionally charged domestic disputes. As noted by Cynthia Carrasco, a senior attorney at Rainbow Services, situations might become intensely competitive, with both the victim and abuser vying for police attention. “When police are called about domestic violence, you often have a race to the phone,” she stated. This reinforces the need for detectives trained to see through the complexities of such situations to distinguish between victims and aggressors.
Long Beach’s Unique Standing
As the second-largest city in Los Angeles County, Long Beach has the opportunity to set a precedent in how domestic violence cases are handled. Local advocates call for reinstating a dedicated domestic violence court, a resource that would streamline processes and place an emphasis on victims’ rights. Legal professionals argue that immediate reforms could make a significant difference in the handling of these sensitive cases.
Implementing Change: Next Steps for Law Enforcement
Following the release of the oversight report, it is now up to the LBPD to consider the proposals for reform. At a recent commission meeting, the recommendations were met with agreement, but clear implementation strategies will be essential. Commission chair Nadia Tushnet noted, “Implementation is everything.” The community is watching closely as the police department assesses the recommendations and determines potential next steps.
Advocating for Victims: Community Response
The emotional and legal battles faced by victims of domestic violence must be addressed with sincerity and urgency. Alongside policymakers, local shelters and legal advocates are urging law enforcement to enhance training on handling domestic violence situations. Failure to make these necessary changes could result in an even larger pattern of injustice, where the very system meant to protect the vulnerable instead further endangers them.
Victims need to know that their voices matter, and their safety is the highest priority. Continuing dialogue between the police force, the community, and local organizations will be imperative in creating a more supportive and effective response to domestic violence in Long Beach.
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