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Arrest and Recidivism Among Woman Batterers

NCJ Number
135974
Journal
Criminal Justice Review Volume: 16 Issue: 2 Dated: (Autumn 1991) Pages: 183-197
Author(s)
M Steinman
Date Published
1991
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study focuses on woman batterers in Lincoln/Lancaster County (Nebr.) and shows the relationship between police arrests and reduced recidivism.
Abstract
Analysis was divided into two periods. The experimental period demonstrates enforcement of arrest with aggressive prosecution. During the baseline period, officers were not required to write reports, and no formal action was taken. Demands from victim advocates resulted in Lincoln's police chief and the county attorney implementing policy changes. New policies were adopted with support from the Domestic Violence Coalition (DVA). One policy required officers to write reports on all incidents and to note those that involved battering. Findings indicate that during the experimental period, arrests compared to taking no formal action resulted in reduced recidivism. During the baseline period, increased recidivism was related to isolated arrests and citations. Many police feel the baseline result supports their argument that arrests encourage more violence. However, the experimental results shows this is not always the outcome. Cooperation between police and other intervening agencies is essential in ensuring offenders will be treated appropriately. 5 tables and 36 references (Author abstract modified)