Assessing Risk and Safety Planning in Domestic Violence Investigations (Under Construction)
Course Category/Categories: Investigations, Under Construction,

See also: Evidence-based, Risk-focused Domestic Violence Investigations

Domestic violence differs from other types of crimes. Its distinct dynamics create a very real potential for violence. Research shows that there are certain risk factors that correlate with domestic violence. While one can never predict violence, knowing how to identify and address these risk factors can help keep victims and families safe.

As a follow up to Evidence-based, Risk-focused Domestic Violence Investigations, this course explains best domestic violence investigation practices, gathered from experts in the field. In addition to helping police officers identify the potential risk factors in domestic violence cases, this course seeks to standardize how police assess risk and document risk in domestic violence cases and promote practices that ensure victim safety is central to all decision making in domestic violence cases.

 

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the importance of evidence-based, risk focused domestic violence investigations
• Explain the importance of assessing risk and safety planning in domestic violence cases
• Differentiate between assessing risk and Risk Assessment
• Define safety planning
• Identify domestic violence risk factors
• Explain the background research contributing to the Summary of Domestic Violence Risk Factors (and the RCMP Domestic Violence Investigation Guide)
• Explain the risk factors in the Summary of Domestic Violence Risk Factors
• Identify and explain the known risk factors while en-route to the call
• Identify and explain known risk factors while you investigate and gather evidence
• Identify and explain the risk factors not covered in the domestic violence case study for this course
• Identify and explain grounds for detention or release of an accused
• Explain the role of risk factors in justifying the detention or release of an accused
• Explain the importance of Reports to Crown Counsel and bail hearing documents
• Describe the format, sequencing and main components of a risk-focused Domestic Violence Report to Crown Counsel
• Articulate the identified domestic violence risk factors in a Report to Crown Counsel
• Explain the importance of safety planning based on identified risks
• Explain how to managing suspect/offender accountability
• Explain supported victim management
• Explain how to document safety plan information

Target Audience

Sworn Police, Police Civilian, Public Safety Officer, Peace Officer / Special Constable, Other Federal, Provincial and Municipal Employees

Pre-Requisite

All BC officers must complete Evidence-based, Risk-focused Domestic Violence Investigations before taking this course.

Content Provider

The content for this course has been developed by experts from various British Columbia agencies including the BC Ministry of Justice, independent municipal police agencies, the RCMP, Crown Counsel, Victim Services, Community Corrections, and the Ministry of Children and Family Development.