Domestic Violence & Police Response in Nunavut
What survivors can expect when police respond to domestic violence calls in Nunavut.
Understanding Police Involvement in Domestic Violence Cases
Police Arrival Steps
When police respond to a domestic violence call, they typically assess the situation upon arrival. Officers look for signs of danger, check on those involved, and may separate parties to gather individual accounts. Their priority is to understand the current risk and collect relevant information.
Arrest vs Release Decisions
After gathering information, police decide whether to arrest a person. This decision is based on evidence of a crime and legal criteria. In some cases, they may release an individual with instructions or warnings if an arrest is not warranted at the moment. These decisions aim to balance immediate safety and legal procedures.
No-Contact Conditions
Police can impose no-contact conditions, which require the accused to avoid contacting or approaching the other party. These conditions may be part of an arrest, release terms, or protective orders. They serve to reduce further conflict or harm during investigations and legal processes.
Emergency Protective Orders (EPO) and Police
During police intervention, officers may help arrange an Emergency Protective Order (EPO). This short-term order limits contact and sometimes includes removal from a shared residence. Police enforce EPO conditions and inform those involved about the order’s terms until further legal steps take place.