Community Response

Part 3

Toronto Police Service have made positive changes in recent years in responding to domestic calls. First and foremost they have taken the onus off the victim to lay charges, have a domestic violence policy, and each division has a designated domestic violence liaison officer. Officers must fully document every domestic response, regardless of whether or not charges were laid or an arrest transpired.

Video statements are being done, and referrals are made to Victim Services and the specialized domestic courts where applicable.

Without getting involved in the publicity and politics surrounding how police presently respond to victims, this writer will report her personal experiences.

For the most part, I have found Toronto police to be compassionate to victims, and understanding of their crisis. I have had the privilege of meeting several officers who have gone far beyond the call of duty to ensure a victim's safety. Officers have sought out expertise to further understand the complexities of the issue. Although frustrated with victims request to withdraw the charges or recant their testimony, these officers have displayed enormous insight into the dynamics of the victimization, and awareness of the pressure put on the victims by the accused, his family and friends to rescind the charges.

This is not to say that Toronto Police Services should not increase their educational/training component to ensure that apathy is non-existent within the rank and file. Ongoing education is the key to successfully working towards victims reporting assaults and trusting the police to act on the their behalf.

One must be mindful that domestics are complex and in most domestics are complex and in most cases the victims and the perpetrator will always be intertwined if they have children.

The parole or probation officer plays a key role in the safety of the victims. When there are court conditions set upon the accused, they should ensure that the victim is aware of how to contact them. In the event court orders are breached, victims should be encouraged and supported in reporting the violations without fear of reprisal.

An excellent free service is available to victims who need support prior to, and while attending court. Court Support Services can be contacted at 416 789-9793. This service will meet with the victim prior to court and guide them through the court process. This service is highly recommended for pending witnesses to enable them to become familiarized with the judicial procedures.

It is not uncommon for victims to be approached outside the courtroom by the accused, his family or friends, or even his employer to put pressure on the victim prior to testifying. Women also get threatening calls not to show in court, and fear for their safety if they proceed with the charges. The victim should always inform the police or the Crown Attorney if threats are made.

Defense attorneys have to be more stringently governed in how they treat domestically abused women. It is recognized that every one has the right to a fair trial, but not at the expense of the victim being re-victimized by ruthless interrogation versus cross-examination thwarting the evidence, or using methods of entrapment.

Crown Attorneys have argued for lengthy jail sentences to protect victims. It is equally frustrating for victims and court representatives when repeat offenders continue to get bail and perpetrators' sentencing is lenient.

Next, Part 4: Breaking the cycle

Barbara Mills has lectured at C.O. Bick Police College in Toronto on a biweekly basis for five years to all ranks of officers on the dynamics of spousal violence and the impact on victims and children.

Barbara Mills is a freelance writer, lecturer, workshop facilitator and speaks specifically to women's issues.