Protecting victims of abuse

Victims of domestic abuse in New Mexico may suffer from a number of different behaviors, including physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and economic actions, or threats related to any of these. Acknowledging the issue and protecting victims is important in order to prevent future actions from the abuser. Doing so improves not only the life of the victim, but also his or her family members, friends and others in their community.

According to the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence, domestic organizations are great advocates for abuse sufferers, and they help reduce the violence and improve the lives of those around the victim. Some positive outcomes from their help and resources include safety, self-confidence, social connectedness and stability.

Officers of law enforcement also play a big part in the protection of abuse victims. According to the International Association of Chiefs of Police, abused persons who have a court-issued order of protection from any state, tribal land or US province can seek help and protection from law enforcement. Officers who are called to a scene of domestic violence in which there may be a violation against a protection order should follow certain steps and guidelines to ensure the safety of everyone involved. These include:

• Safeguard the victim
• Get medical care for victim, if needed
• Protect and secure the scene of the crime
• Seize firearms subject to prohibitions
• Evaluate the order for validity and enforceability
• Attempt to locate the abuser, if not on premise
• Seek arrest warrant for order violation
• Arrest abuser for violation or other illegal activities
• Refer victim to place of safety or appropriate agency for help