Domestic Violence & Police Response in New York

Police Arrival and Safety Steps

When the police arrive at the scene of a domestic violence incident, their first priority is to ensure everyone's safety. They will separate the people involved to understand what happened and assess any immediate danger. Officers may offer medical assistance if needed and look for signs of injury or threats. It’s important to stay calm, answer their questions clearly, and follow their instructions to help keep the situation under control.

Mandatory Arrest Situations

In some cases, the police must make an arrest even if the victim does not want them to. This usually happens if they see or have reason to believe a crime involving domestic violence was committed, such as physical harm or threats of serious injury. The goal is to prevent further harm and protect everyone’s safety, especially when there is strong evidence or danger of ongoing violence.

Report to District Attorney Process

After an arrest, police will send their report, evidence, and any statements to the District Attorney’s (DA) office. The DA reviews this information to decide whether to file formal charges against the offender. This process helps ensure that cases with sufficient evidence move forward through the legal system to seek accountability and protection for survivors.

Release Conditions and No-Contact Orders

When someone accused of domestic violence is released from custody, the court may set specific conditions to help keep everyone safe. One common condition is a no-contact order, which legally prohibits the offender from contacting or coming near the survivor. Violating this order can lead to arrest and further penalties. These measures support survivors’ security while the case is pending.

For more detailed support and resources, visit DV Support.