Reducing Domestic Violence in the United States: Targeting the Misdemeanour Crime

Abstract

In 1993, the Portland Police Bureau created a special unit, the Domestic Violence Reduction Unit (DVRU) to address an emerging area of public concern: domestic violence. Focusing on the misdemeanour domestic violence case, the mission of the unit is to reduce the overall level of domestic violence in the community through a programme which provides follow-up investigation, interagency coordination, community education and assistance to victims. The programme provides an example of law enforcement's efforts to move beyond arrest to interrupt the cycle of domestic violence crime by enhancing prosecution and by empowering victims. The formation of the unit was a direct result of 1) a philosophy of community policing policy which required consultation with community groups in establishing police priorities and strategies; and 2) changing legal and cultural perspectives on domestic violence crimes. This paper explores the development of the DVRU, its operation and its impact, and discusses its strengths and limitations after five years of experience.