DV / Injunction / Stalking Guide

NATIONAL

National structure only. Arrest authority, mandatory-arrest rules, and injunction offenses are set by your state's law.

Scene safety and separationSeparate the parties before interviewing; keep them out of sight and hearing of each other.Check for injuries, weapons, and children or other vulnerable people present; request medical aid where needed.Interview parties and witnesses separately; document statements in their own words in the official report system — not in this app.

Lethality promptsPrior strangulation or choking.Threats to kill, or threats with a weapon.Escalating frequency or severity of violence.Extreme jealousy or controlling behavior; separation or attempted separation.Access to firearms; substance abuse; threats of suicide.If lethality indicators are present, follow your state/agency protocol and connect the victim with advocacy resources.

Injunctions and stalking — general termsInjunction: confirm a valid, current order exists, confirm service/proof it is in effect, and identify the specific conduct it prohibits before enforcing.Stalking, in general terms: a repeated course of conduct directed at a person that would cause a reasonable person substantial emotional distress or fear — exact elements are your state's statute.Provide victim-rights information and resources as your state law and agency policy require.