Domestic Violence & Police Response in Wisconsin

Police Scene Actions

When police arrive at a domestic violence scene, their primary focus is safety—protecting survivors, children, and others involved. Officers will assess the situation, separate the parties, and secure any evidence such as injuries, damage, or weapons. They may provide medical assistance referrals and connect survivors with support services. Officers document the scene thoroughly to support possible criminal proceedings while ensuring survivors understand their options.

Arrest vs Report

An arrest means law enforcement has detained a suspect believed to have committed a crime, often based on probable cause or immediacy of danger. Arrest leads to processing and potential charges. A report is the documentation of an incident, which may or may not lead to arrest. Police reports provide official records that can support investigations and prosecutions, or assist survivors seeking protection or resources.

Charging Overview

Charging decisions are made by the prosecutor after reviewing police reports, evidence, and victim statements. They determine whether to file formal charges based on legal standards and the strength of the case. Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the offense. Survivors may be contacted during this process and are encouraged to access advocacy services such as those found at DV Support.

No-Contact Orders

No-contact orders are legal directives that prohibit an alleged abuser from contacting the survivor in any form—directly or indirectly. These orders can be issued by courts during investigations or trials to enhance survivor safety. Violating a no-contact order can result in arrest or additional legal consequences. It is important that survivors understand these orders and report any breaches to law enforcement promptly.