The police are intensifying their efforts in cases of domestic violence

The police play a key role in preventing and dealing with domestic violence. The National Police Board has published new internal guidelines intended for all police employees who encounter cases of domestic violence in their work.

The police deal with matters related to domestic violence in all areas of their operations: surveillance and emergency services, crime prevention and permit administration. In addition to the observations made by the police themselves, the police also receive reports of domestic violence from the injured parties, bystanders and other authorities.

It is characteristic of domestic violence that the relevant parties may not necessarily want to have the situation investigated, often due to pressure, fear or attachment they experience. This makes the situations difficult for the police, especially when the victim does not want the case to be investigated. This is why the police must ensure that police personnel understand the seriousness of domestic violence, take timely measures in the case, and that police officers have sufficient expertise to handle the matter.

Clear instructions and support for the police

The National Police Board has drawn up a guideline to help the police identify cases of domestic violence and take the necessary measures to investigate the cases. The guideline ensures that the police protect the rights of victims of crime in particular and prevent the recurrence of domestic violence. The guideline also discusses the finishing of the pre-trial investigation and the related measures.

Attached to the guideline are checklists for field patrols and forensic investigators, as well as a service guidance letter to be given to customers. Police units are responsible for ensuring the implementation and compliance with the guideline in all areas of operation, including training.

The role of the police from the first response to the consideration of charges

“The actions of the first response patrol of the police are crucial in identifying and intervening in domestic violence. An official record must be made of all reports, and a pre-trial investigation must be launched regardless of what the injured party wants to do,” Deputy National Police Commissioner Sanna Heikinheimo points out. 

The police must carry out a careful risk assessment and take the necessary action based on it. The correct investigative measures must be taken as early as possible in order to obtain sufficient evidence and to hold the perpetrator criminally liable in court. Even a minor assault cannot be mediated or decided by the police, even if the parties do not want to have an investigation of what happened or if it is difficult to obtain evidence. Sufficient records must be made of all measures in the police information systems.

Co-operation is the key in preventing domestic violence

The police would like to point out that domestic violence is a serious problem, and reporting it is an important step towards a safer life. The police are intensifying both their competence and efforts in cases of domestic violence. However, preventing domestic violence is the responsibility of society as a whole, and the police cannot do it alone. Effective prevention and breaking the cycle of crime require close multi-authority co-operation.