Domestic Violence Report 2024 : simplebooklet.com

Police Complaints Authority's Report on Domestic Violence Introduction“Bits of Paper- From Failure to Function” is an ongoingtripartite series launched by the Police Complaints Authority(PCA) in September, 2019. It focuses on the PCA’s activeoversight role of the conduct and functions of TTPS officersin policing reports of Domestic Violence.This initiative included three outreach sessions designed toinvite public consultation on the functions of the PCA asthey relate to the referrals and recommendations made inthis area. It also targeted the following stakeholder groups: ·Students of the University of the West Indies, Trinidad; ·Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Gender Based ViolenceUnit; ·Officers dealing with reports of Domestic Violence; and ·Internal PCA stakeholders. The PCA embarked on our three-part series after ourdesignated “Think Tank” examined all of our DV relatedinvestigations from 2011-2017. We also consideredjurisdictional studies on policing of domestic violencereports and dissected our own in-house practices.

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We analysed what the newspaper editorials described as“bureaucratic lethargy” and identified the relevant writtenguidelines to law enforcement on domestic violence. Theseinclude “The Investigative and Procedural Manual for PoliceOfficers in Trinidad and Tobago.” This 40 page booklet wascommissioned by the then Attorney General in 2003. Theappointed ad hoc committee was mandated to prepare thismanual and specifically tailor same for the use of policeinvestigators responding to reports or complaints ofdomestic violence. The committee was tasked with:1. Drafting protocols on the methods of primary responsesto reports of complaints of domestic violence;2.Drafting protocols on the treatment of and interactionwith victims of domestic violence, witnesses to domesticviolence, minors in a home where there had been domesticviolence and suspects of domestic violence; and 3.Establishing clear statements and explanations of thecurrent law as it relates to domestic violence, inclusive ofexisting legislation, police standing orders and staff ordersand case law.This manual has 23 sections and clearly states that itspurpose is to assist police officers of all ranks to effectivelyand sensitively respond to reports of domestic violence and

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to take the appropriate criminal procedural measures toprosecute the suspect and thereby provide relief to andprotect the victim of domestic violence.This manual is more than two decades old.Following our extensive research, the PCA in collaborationwith the University of the West Indies (UWI), Faculty ofSocial Sciences, hosted the first seminar of the “Bits ofPaper – From Failure to Function” Series on October 31st,2019 at the UWI, Faculty of Social Sciences Lounge. Duringthis seminar, the PCA was able to deliver information aboutreliefs available to the younger members of society and tomembers of the public in general as well as gain valuableinsight into some of the alarming real-life situations whichare experienced by victims when reporting incidents ofdomestic violence.In an effort to deploy the second part of this tripartiteseries, the PCA dispatched formal correspondence to theSenior Superintendent of the Gender Based Violence Unit(GBVU). Therein, requests were made for the opportunity tomeet with the team at the GBVU in furtherance of thePCA’s drive to improve police engagement with victims ofdomestic violence when reports are made and throughoutthe investigative process. To date, the PCA has received no response to theserequests.

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The PCA has several roles relevant to complaints ofdomestic violence: 1.Officer Based Domestic Violence- We investigate reportsof domestic violence where a TTPS Officer is the allegedperpetrator. 2.Victim Support- We make recommendations for supportand counseling for victims of domestic violence whether theviolence was at the hands of a police officer or whether thevictim is a police officer. We also make recommendationsfor the officer to also receive counseling.3.Neglect of Duty and Breach of Protection Orders- Weinvestigate the manner in which TTPS officers treat withreports of domestic violence and breaches of protectionorders. At the PCA, each complaint is managed on a case by casebasis at regularly scheduled “case managementconferences”. The Director or Deputy Director, LegalCounsel and a PCA Investigator attend each conference. Toensure that the PCA’s team is suited to treating with thesesensitive reports, the PCA has engaged our Investigationsand Legal teams in both internal and external training in thisparticular field of policing.In 2018, the PCA initiated an investigation into theallegation of neglect of duty by the police relative to reportsof Domestic Violence made to them by Samantha Isaacs.

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The PCA uncovered critical information whichdemonstrated that there was inaction by the police relevantto the reports made and a recommendation was made tothe Commissioner of Police in April 2019 for disciplinaryaction to be considered against the defaulting officer.Domestic Violence is a critical issue in Trinidad and Tobago,with rising reports of intimate partner violence leading tosevere injuries and fatalities. Victims often encounterbarriers such as stigma and inadequate support from lawenforcement and social services. This type of violence hasnow been classified as a public health issue whichdevastates lives and communities, perpetuating cycles ofabuse. As awareness increases, there is an urgent need forcomprehensive strategies that prioritize victim protection,strengthen legal frameworks and foster a cultural shifttowards zero tolerance for domestic violence. It is alsoincumbent for stakeholders and responsible agencies to notwork in silos.In May 2024, the Honourable Mr. Justice Robin N.Mohammed delivered the landmark decision in the case ofClaim No. CV2021-03178 between Tot Lampkin (asAdministratrix ad litem and as next friend of Kaiden Garciaborn on March 18, 2014) –v- the Attorney General ofTrinidad and Tobago in which it was decided that the Statehas a positive obligation to act with due diligence to protectvictims of domestic violence and their families fromperpetrators.

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The learned Judge’s decision was based heavily on aconsideration of the prevailing societal conditions regardingdomestic violence in Trinidad and Tobago as well aspertinent international instruments and decisionsconcerning same. This was a matter that had beeninvestigated by the PCA. Recommendations were in factmade by the PCA for disciplinary proceedings to be broughtagainst the police officers who were responsible forinvestigating the reports of violence (inclusive of possessionof a knife and a firearm) and who neglected their duty.The overarching issue addressed by the Court in the casewas “whether the scope of the right to life, the right to theprotection of the law, and the right to respect for privateand family life encompasses a positive obligation on theState to take effective action to protect victims of domesticviolence and their families from violations of theirfundamental rights at the hands of perpetrators.” At paragraph 298 of the decision, the Honourable Judgestated that the exceptional facts of this case warranted anovel interpretation of the various constitutional rights andhighlighted the urgent need to address the systemic neglectthat has left many victims of domestic violence vulnerable.The Honourable Judge’s decision in Tot Lampkin supra hasbeen hailed as vital commentary on the devastatingconsequences of the pervasive attitude of neglect, inactionand lack of follow-through afflicting various arms of theState.

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Moreover, it has been welcomed by the Inter-AmericanCommission on Human Rights as a significant step towardsimproving the legal framework for the protection of thehuman rights of women in Trinidad and Tobago.At Paragraph 148 of Mohammed J’s decision on theapplication by Tot Lambkin the Court referred to theconcept of “inertia”. Mohammed J specifically referencedthe case of, Van Colle v Chief Constable of theHertfordshire Police [2009] AC 225: “Lord Bingham in VanColle was emphatic that, “Stupidity, lack of imagination andinertia” are not appropriate excuses when authoritiesreasonably ought, in the light of what they know or ought toknow, to make further enquiries or investigations. Heasserted that the authorities should be “treated as knowingwhat such further enquiries or investigations would haveelicited”.Summary of FactsIn the aforementioned matter, the Claimant, Tot Lampkin, asmother and Administratrix ad litem of Samantha StaceyIsaacs (“Samantha”) filed a Constitutional Motion by way ofFixed Date Claim Form on September 21, 2021 seekingvarious reliefs against the Defendant. Samantha was a victim of domestic violence at the hands ofher former partner, Kahriym Garcia (“Kahriym”), whichultimately resulted in her tragic death on December 17,2017.

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The facts of this case recount a series of incidents ofdomestic violence perpetrated by Kahriym againstSamantha from 2013 to 2017 which was furtherexacerbated by the inaction and lack of follow-through bythe Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (“TTPS”) and theJudiciary. The Claimant’s case was premised principally on thefollowing two bases:-1.The failure of the TTPS to take the appropriate andnecessary steps to address Kahriym’s violent and criminalbehaviour towards Samantha and to provide her withadequate and effective protection, despite several reportsmade to them concerning his conduct; and2.The Judiciary’s failure to provide adequate, timely andeffective relief and/or protection to Samantha despite herapplication made on August 29, 2017 for an InterimProtection Order pursuant to the Domestic Violence ActChap. 45:56 (“the Domestic Violence Act”), a few monthsbefore her untimely death.

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The Police Complaint Authority’s InvestigationAt paragraphs 25 and 175 of the decision, the learned Judgemade reference to the fact that following Samantha’s death,the Police Complaints Authority (“PCA”) commenced aninvestigation into an allegation of Neglect of Dutyconcerning Acting Corporal S. This investigation arose fromthe officer’s failure to take any steps following his receipt ofthe report of threats made by Samantha on June 18, 2017.Following the completion of its investigation, the PCA maderecommendations to the Commissioner of Police fordisciplinary action to be taken against Acting Corporal S. Regrettably, the Commissioner of Police took no furtheraction relative to the foregoing as the Police ComplaintsDivision concluded from their investigation that there wasno evidence to implicate Acting Corporal S for wrongdoing. It is noteworthy that the PCA’s investigation revealed thatSamantha’s report of June 18, 2017 was recorded by oneCorporal R. It was also revealed that while the report andthe subsequent assignment of same to WPC JT wascommunicated to Acting Corporal S as the Senior Officer atthe time, WPC JT was never notified that this report wasassigned to her, the responsibility of which vested withActing Corporal S.The PCA’s investigation into this matter spanned the courseof less than one and a half years.

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The PCA received the report on February 1, 2018 andsubmitted its file to the Commissioner of Police on April 3,2019 with recommendations for disciplinary action. OnApril 19, 2021, the PCA wrote to the Commissioner for anupdate and was subsequently informed that no furtheractions were taken. The decision of Mohammed J is important as it wasintended to have a significant impact on the creation ofpolicy as it relates to victims of domestic violence inTrinidad and Tobago. There are also practical implicationsarising from the decision for the TTPS, the PCA and otherstakeholders, some of which will be highlighted below. Implications for the TTPS 1.All reports of Domestic Violence must be responded toand investigated by the TTPS.By Section 21 of the Domestic Violence Act Chap. 45:46(“the DV Act”), the TTPS is required to respond to eachreport of domestic violence whether or not the victim is theone making the report. However, in light of this case,officers must go a step further to ensure that thoroughinvestigations are conducted into such reports and thatinvestigators are immediately assigned to conductinvestigations promptly.

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The TTPS must also make an extra effort to follow-up withvictims of domestic violence. This is especially neededwhere isolated reports are made as a lack of follow-up by avictim is not an indication that the alleged violent conductabated. The learned Judge commented on this at paragraph154 of the decision where he stated that a perpetrator whohas demonstrated such a high inclination for violence shouldnot be taken lightly. He further stated that the literature [ondomestic violence] was replete with concerns about theunderreporting of incidents of domestic violence. As such,where reports of domestic violence involving dangerousweapons and guns are made, there is an even greaterjustification for the TTPS to conduct full and properinvestigations. 2.The TTPS must check whether there is a background ofdomestic violence.The TTPS must ensure that the Versadex is reviewed forevery report of domestic violence made against anindividual to determine whether a pattern has emerged. Thiscan be achieved by either searching the victim’s or theperpetrator’s name to see whether multiple reports havebeen made on the same issue. It is not sensible to treat each report as an isolated incident.At paragraph 162 of the decision, the Court opined that inthe age of technology and digitization, police officers oughtto have access to reported incidents of criminal conductoccurring in various parts of the country if they are toconduct effective policing.

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This also demonstrates the utility of a National DomesticViolence Register (which is referred to at Section 21(2) ofthe DV Act) which could assist with verifying whetherperpetrators are past offenders. Information gathered bythe PCA confirms that these registers are not regularlypopulated and there are also cases where the officersthemselves are ignorant of their existence and purpose.3.Where offences are apparent, the TTPS must take actionto charge offenders.The TTPS must take steps to arrest and charge perpetratorsof domestic violence for the criminal conduct exhibited bythem. In this case, the TTPS took no steps to investigate orinitiate prosecutions against the perpetratornotwithstanding the numerous criminal acts committed byhim including assault by beating, threats to kill andpossession of various lethal weapons all of which had thepotential to lead to fatal consequences. At paragraph 168, the Honourable Judge made reference tothe failure by the TTPS to arrest and charge the perpetratorin this case where they had lawful discretion afforded tothem to do so for conduct that was clearly criminal in natureand punishable under several pieces of legislation.4.Need for Training and the creation of a DomesticViolence Policy to sensitize TTPS officers.A major consideration arising from the judgment is that alack of resources (such as not having any police vehiclesavailable) cannot be used, on its own, as a reasonableexcuse to not responding to domestic violence reports.

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This is especially so where there is a real risk to the life andsafety of individuals and even minors.As such, Domestic Violence Training and/or a Policy onDomestic Violence can assist officers with the provision ofalternative options which can be used when faced withpractical issues such as police vehicles being unavailable atthe time of an urgent/live domestic violence report. Thelearned Judge at paragraph 173, pointed to an example ofalternative action which can be taken such as contactingneighbouring police stations to determine whether anyother vehicles may be available or even contacting policeofficers on patrol to request that they proceed immediatelyto the location of the live domestic violence incident. Anysuch training or policy must also make it clear that anyfurther action taken by an officer must be recorded todemonstrate that the domestic violence report was notwilfully disregarded.It must be recognized that TTPS Officers may wronglydiscredit the urgency/validity of a report on the basis thatthe victim made prior reports which were discontinued.Domestic Violence Training and/or a written Policy on thissubject matter may assist with sensitizing officers to thestereotypical cycle of abuse wherein reports may be madeby a victim but discontinued as they return to theperpetrator for psychological, financial and/or emotionalreasons.

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This is a serious issue which must be addressed as officersmust be made to understand that all reports must be dealtwith whether or not a victim repeatedly discontinues amatter or requests that no further action be taken.5.The TTPS must be alive to the oppressive conduct ofperpetrators of domestic violence and take steps tomitigate the effect of this during an investigation.Where reports are made by a victim, the TTPS must ensurethat the victim is not being pressured to discontinue aninvestigation due to oppressive actions by the perpetrator.Thus, where reports of domestic violence are made, thevictim must be interviewed and interfaced with separatelyto ensure that any decision to discontinue an investigationwas not made out of fear of reprisals. As stated above, the creation of a Domestic Violence Policywould also be useful here as it can help with sensitizingofficers to this issue and provide guidelines to better assistthe TTPS in treating with victims.6.Clear communication of assignment of domestic violencereports. As stated above, all reports of domestic violence must beactioned urgently and assigned immediately to aninvestigator who will conduct enquiries into same. However,from the instant case, it is apparent that issues can arisewhere a report has been assigned to an investigator butsame has not been clearly communicated.

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The current system employed by the TTPS allows forsignificant miscommunication and/or mistakes to occur.This may occur when an officer is not made aware that heor she has been assigned to conduct investigations into amatter which may ultimately result in pressing mattersslipping through the cracks. This gives rise to the need forthe implementation of a reliable File Tracking System whichhas been consistently recommended by the PCA to allowfor greater transparency on the assignment of reports andto prevent serious reports from being overlooked orneglected thereby resulting in potentially fatalconsequences. Implications for the PCAAt paragraph 127 of the decision, the learned Judgelamented that the Court lacked recent statistics on domesticviolence to accurately portray the pressing crisis occurringin society. However, His Lordship referenced the manynews headline reports which reveal the scourge of violenceplaguing Trinidad and Tobago. In 2019 the PCA published its data on the investigationsthat it conducted and conceded that a more rigorousapproach had to be deployed to its response. During itspresentation, “Bits of Paper- from Failure to Function” theDeputy Director, Michelle Solomon-Baksh, conceded that,“There needs to be a radical change in strategy.

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As a civilian oversight body we agree that DV is a seriouscommunity problem and legislation exists to treat with DVas a CRIME. This is not an area that can be “under-policed”.The data presented at that 2019 seminar and the recentdata for the period 1st October, 2023 to date is set out atpage 67 of this document.In relation to the investigation into the report by TotLambkin, the PCA only became involved after the victim’sdeath when the report was lodged by her mother, Ms.Lampkin. It is apparent that, some of the implications for the PCAinclude:-1.The need to spread awareness to victims of domesticviolence that they can seek assistance from the PCA ifreports are not investigated in a timely manner. While the PCA already receives reports like these, it isclear that more can be done to inform and sensitize thecitizenry to the fact that if a report of domestic violence ismade which is not being addressed by the TTPS, it can andshould be reported to the PCA. 2.Being hyper-responsive to reports of domestic violencewhere a TTPS officer is the alleged perpetrator. All reports of domestic violence require a great deal ofurgency, sensitivity and empathy.

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However, in many instances where victims make reportsabout TTPS officers who may be domestic violenceperpetrators, an even higher standard of care must beadopted as these victims are usually unwilling to makereports to the TTPS for fear of retaliation or inaction as theofficers may elect to protect a fellow colleague. Moreoverthese officers may be in possession of firearms at home.Thus, the PCA’s adherence to Section 21(4) of the PCA Actmust be brought to the attention of the victims in order toemphasize that each matter is handled with the highestdegree of confidentiality. In this connection, additionaltraining and the creation of a Domestic Violence Policy forthe PCA containing information to sensitize investigatorscan be useful.3.Where a police officer is the perpetrator of domesticviolence, the PCA must make recommendations and takeaction when possible.In cases where a TTPS officer is the perpetrator of domesticviolence, the PCA’s response must include a risk assessmentas it relates to immediate harm to the victim. This mayinclude a recommendation that the COP considers not onlytaking all steps to ensure that the officer does not haveaccess to a firearm but also that the officer receivescounseling. Moreover, offences of “neglect of duty” byofficers must be met with recommendations for theconsideration of disciplinary proceedings as a “Big Stick”tool targeting deterrence.

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4.Potential for collaboration between State Agencies andthe PCA on matters involving domestic violence.In the instant case, when Samantha applied for theProtection Order, she may have been required to produceevidence pertaining to the police reports. In this regard only,when victims are un-represented, the PCA’s AdvocateAttorney can appear amicus in proceedings, therebyassisting the Court.Additionally, if in proceedings like these,a Master or Judge is made aware that reports were made bya victim but no action was taken by the TTPS, there shouldbe a discretion available to the Master or Judge to bring thisinformation to the attention of the PCA so that aninvestigation can be commenced before it is too late. Overall, there should be greater collaboration between thePCA and other stakeholders who receivereports/information concerning domestic violence,Protection Orders or the inaction of the TTPS regardingsame. These state agencies include the Judiciary, theChildren’s Authority and even Medical Facilities as they maypotentially receive this type of information in the executionof their ordinary duties and functions.On 23rd December, 2017 the Coalition Against DomesticViolence (CADV) issued a press release on the killing ofSamantha by her partner.

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The CADV called for, “…an investigation into the handling ofabuse complaints by murder victim Samantha Isaacs…”. Itdescribed Samantha’s death as “…a preventable tragedy: themurder of Isaacs by her former intimate partner andsomeone from whom she sought protection by going to thepolice…”. It stressed that, “police must investigate andprosecute domestic violence, whether or not a womanapplies for a protection order.”The PCA’s initiative in 2019 was triggered by an Expresseditorial of 3rd January, 2018 following the killing ofanother female by her partner. The writer described, “…the battle against violence againstwomen,” as, “…a national failure.” It was an address to, “…legislators, enforcers, advocates and citizens.” There was acall for the adoption of “…a radical change in strategy.”There was a reference to a report that a recent victim ofdomestic violence, “…did not have the resources to escape,”and the article morbidly asserted that, “…there appears tobe a certain air of inevitability associated (by) this murder.” The article went on to comment that, “These batteredvictims of relentless physical and psychological warfaredeserve our understanding and help not our accusations andjudgment…And in so doing, we must have the confidencethat police officers will act promptly and sensitively toprotect, support and guide the victim.

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In such situations, the entire victim support system needs tobrought into play, including social workers, psychologists,and NGOs which work with victims of domestic violence.Individual and bureaucratic lethargy is costing women theirlives and destroying children caught up in domesticviolence.”No right thinking citizen should ignore this battle cry. On September 25, 2024, the Attorney General’s Officehosted a Domestic Violence Public Consultation at theHyatt Regency Hotel. This public consultation was in facttriggered by the case of Tot Lampkin. The consultationrevealed that while the amended Domestic Violence Act hasexpanded the categories of abuse, the array of protectionsand catchment of persons who may seek relief under theAct, there are still gaps in the legislation. Alarmingly, the consultation revealed that the TTPS electedto respond to the Tot Lambkin case by deploying targetedand suitable training for all police officers, with the hopethat this will effect real change and engender trust andconfidence in the system to report and prosecute DomesticViolence.

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No consideration, other than the AG’s pointed reference tothe PCA’s independent investigation and recommendationfor disciplinary proceedings, was made to the need forenforcing disciplinary proceedings when officers failed toinvestigate criminal offences arising from domestic violence. The consultation reminded all participants that policeofficers are not limited to acting within the scope of theDomestic Violence Act to afford relief to the victim as thereare numerous pieces of legislation (several bits of paper)which are applicable to the investigation and prosecution ofcriminal acts that are also acts of Domestic Violence andthere should be no difference when responding to a reportof DV from any other reports of crime. One panelist evenexclaimed that she was not, “Cutting the police any slack!”. The impact of the decision in this case is so profound thatthe Honourable Attorney General Reginald Armour SeniorCounsel stated in no uncertain terms, that after consultationwith Senior Counsel, he would not be filing an appeal andthat his Ministry will be working tirelessly to ensure thatvictims of Domestic Violence can access the assistance,support and protection that is critical to sustain life and limband which will be crucial to reduce the prevalence ofDomestic Violence in the fabric of Trinidad and Tobago’ssociety.

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The Consultation was attended by a wide cross-section ofinterested parties within the public scope inclusive ofgovernment officials, Non-Governmental Organisations, theLaw Association, Secondary School students, members ofthe wider public and the PCA. During the presentations andpanel discussions, it was agreed that there must be a morefocused effort by each state entity to treat with incidents ofDomestic Violence and that every existing tool should beutilized to give the best form of relief to the victim.Stakeholders also expressed the common view that theyshould not be operating in silos.Without any consideration for, far less conversation on,discipline as a deterrent to neglects of duty by policeofficers, time will tell whether this approach was anadequate response to the 2017 battle cry.

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The following is a sample of the Case Studies; Summaries ofReferrals and Advice to the Commissioner of Police by thePCA as it relates to Domestic Violence from the period2012 to date:2012 in Valencia01This 25 year old female lived in Valencia with a policemanand his children. Their mother, his former spouse, allegedlyset herself on fire during an altercation with this officer. Shedied. Her successor described violent threats on the lowestend of the spectrum. After the authorities got involved shewas intercepted by the officer who allegedly slammed herto the ground, undressed her, inserted his fist into hervagina and kicked her repeatedly- in her vagina. She nextrecalled waking up at the Sangre Grande Hospital. Theseallegations are at the highest end of the spectrum.The Virtual Complainant (VC) refused to participate in anyaction against this officer. This posed several problems interms of a referral by the PCA for the prosecution of thiscase.cont'd

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2012 in Valencia01The PCA agreed, among other things:1.That the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) plays aninstrumental role in ensuring the safety of those who areabused in their own homes by cooperating with theCoalition Against Domestic Violence (CADV). 2.That a group similar to the Strategic Support Group (SSG)in the U.K. be established to: 1.Review DV cases and identify any lessons for both thePCA and for policing. (The vision was to include otherclasses of victims such as children; young persons; thementally ill and the disabled, that is to say, vulnerablecitizens.) 2.Train PCA staff on the treatment of this category ofcomplainants. 3.That the PCA take steps to sensitize the TTPS on DV. 4.That there be an implementation of a DV Investigativeand Procedural Manual for Police Officers in Trinidad andTobago. 5.That there be active use of the National DV Register.(Section 21 (2) of the DV Act Chap: 45:56 sets out that theCOP is to maintain this register.) cont'dcont'd

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In this matter consideration was also given to:1.Subjecting the officer to disciplinary proceedings; 2.Bringing complaints under the Summary Offences Act and 3.Pursuing the offence of assault occasioning actual bodilyharm regardless of the unwillingness of the victim sincethere was medical evidence and an admission by theperpetrator. 2012 in Valencia01cont'd

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2012 in Palo Seco02This lady complained that her spouse, a police officer,slapped her and harassed her at her workplace. Adisciplinary tribunal was commissioned by the police to dealwith these allegations.2013 in Tobago03The female complainant emailed her complaint to the PCAabout her husband’s, a police officer’s, physical abuse. Shedid not respond to any of the PCA’s attempts to contact herand she did not give us any contact information other thanher email address. 03

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2013 in Aranguez04This complaint was relative to a husband, another policeofficer, hitting the complainant with a stone to the back ofher head. The PCA looked at his actions and theinvestigation that the police conducted.In both investigations the woman eventually signedstatements claiming that she did not want to pursue thematter. But she admitted to the PCA’s investigator thatwhen she gave that position to the police she was scaredthat, “something serious would have happened as a result ofthe incident.”What is disturbing is that the PCA discovered that thepolice did appoint an investigator but he did not record astatement from the victim. She wrote up her own versionand no questions were put to her to clear up anyambiguities or to gather useful information. As a result, theoffender was questioned about the wrong date. Heprovided an alibi for that date that the Investigator put tohim and quite helpfully copies of a Duty Diary wereproduced to support the alibi. The statement by the officerand the production of this diary took place one year afterher complaint to the police.

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2014 in Belmont05When this lady was slammed against a wall and held soviolently that her arm started to swell and was cut, shewent to the police for help. Her spouse was a policeofficer. The Senior Superintendent referred the matter tothe PCA.She eventually completed a Discontinuance Form andgave the following reason:“Your system is more punitive than rehabilitative. I wanthelp for my husband who has a drinking problem…I donot want my husband to lose his job.”

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2015- Report made to St. James Police Station06As is protocol, the PCA decided to notify the Commissionerof Police of serious allegations of Domestic Violence againstone of its own. In this case, the officer threatened hisspouse by threatening to kill her; threatening to arrange forsomeone to kill her; threatening to throw acid on her;threatening to fire shots at her house; threatening to kill anylover she may have and threatening to kidnap theirdaughter. He later admitted to our investigator that theyhad a volatile relationship where she would also hit him andthat he may have made some of those utterances in theheat of the moment.The complainant herself described a history of reporting tothe St. James Police Station repeatedly and obtaining theassistance of the officers in getting her husband out of herhome. She asserted that she was too ashamed to return tomake any further complaints because the officers hadhelped her on those numerous occasions. However, whenwe investigated the matter, there was no record of any ofher reports.cont'd

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2015- Report made to St. James Police Station06When she eventually indicated to us that she did not wantus to proceed in the matter she explained that they hadseparated and they had “moved-on.” She was adamant thatshe did not want her name recorded on any complaint,especially to the COP because she was financiallydependent on this officer and did not want him to lose hisjob. This was the same reason she asserted that she gave tothe police officers at St. James who she claimed alsoreferred her to the TTPS Social Workers and Families inAction.This case again triggered consideration of the following:1.DV Sensitization for all Officers; 2.The establishment of a DV Investigation and ProcedureManual for police officers; 3.The insistence of logging offenders in a DV register and 4.Recommendations for mental health care for policeofficers. cont'd

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2016-Police Fail to Investigate Reports of DomesticViolence07In July, 2016, a civilian made a report of assault by beatingand threats by her husband to the police. An officer wasassigned to investigate this mater but failed to do so sincehe claimed he was assigned to the EMA and his duties didnot include investigating allegations of Domestic Violence.This report was never investigated by the TTPS.In August, the same civilian made a report of a breach of aprotection order which included details that her husbandwas armed with a weapon and drove in a dangerous mannerwhich put her life at risk. An officer was assigned toinvestigate this report and criminal proceedings werebrought against the assailant. However, the officer failed toattend court and no explanation was offered for hisabsence. The civilian was murdered by her husband weeks beforethis matter was tried in the magistrate’s court.The findings of the PCA’s investigation were referred to theCOP and advice was provided as it relates to the conduct ofinvestigations by the TTPS into reports of DomesticViolence.

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2017 in Siparia08In this matter, when the police officers received the reportof threats to kill and shoot together with a history ofphysical abuse they elected to warn the offender andadvised the victim to take out a DV order in court. Thevictim was clear that she did not want to go to Courtbecause she was afraid that, “the situation would getworse.”In June 2017, SI and her mother, made a report to theCarenage Police Station that the former’s boyfriend wasarmed with a gun and a knife and made threats to themwhile he held the said knife against the throat of themother. No action was taken against the boyfriend as thisserious report was never investigated by the police. On December 15, 2017, SI and the said boyfriend got intoan argument which resulted in a physical altercation. Thismatter was reported to the St. Clair Police Station and bothparties were counselled and warned accordingly by police. 2017- Woman Dies After Police Fails To InvesiigateReport of Domestic Violece09cont'd.

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On December 16, 2017, SI was shot and killed by herboyfriend who subsequently committed suicide. The PCA conducted an investigation into the conduct of thepolice officers and made a referral for the consideration ofdisciplinary action to the COP. The TTPS conducted aninvestigation into the failure by the police to investigate SI’sreport of June 2017 and found no evidence of wrongdoingby the police. SI’s mother has since filed a constitutionalmotion against the State, contending, inter alia, that SI’sconstitutional rights were violated by the failure and/orinaction of the TTPS to provide SI with adequate and/oreffective protection from the criminal and/or violentbehaviour of her former boyfriend, following reports madeagainst him by SI to the TTPS. This matter is presently the subject of on-going proceedingsbefore the High Court of Justice.2017- Woman Dies After Police Fails To InvestigateReport of Domestic Violence09cont'd.

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In March, 2018 a civilian reported that he had a verbalaltercation with his brother who attacked him with a cutlass.He was also beaten about his face, neck and head by hisbrother’s brother-in-law. Police officers and an ambulancewere called to the scene.The civilian was attended to at the Eric Williams MedicalSciences Complex and sustained a fracture and chopwounds. He was warded for weeks.Upon his discharge from hospital he made a report at thepolice station and was issued a citizen report. The TTPSinvestigator was also identified. To date there is noevidence that an investigation was conducted by the TTPSeven though the identities of the assailants are not a fact indispute.The information gathered by the PCA during its preliminaryinvestigation was referred to the COP for the considerationof disciplinary proceedings.2018- TTPS Fails to Investigate Civilian's Report ofWounding10

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In July, 2020 the PCA received a report by a civilian whowas in the process of concluding matrimonial proceedingsagainst her ex-husband, a retired Inspector of Police. Eventhough the parties had been separated for many years theycontinued to share the matrimonial home and in November,2019 the retired officer punched her in her face.The victim made a report at the Tunapuna Police Stationand a TTPS Investigator was assigned to her matter.The PCA’s investigation revealed that there was noevidence of any investigation by the police.The PCA referred the matter to the COP for theconsideration of disciplinary proceedings against the officerwho failed to investigate the incident.2020- TTPS Fails to Investigate Allegations ofDomestic Violence At the Hands of Retired Inspectorof Police11

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In August, 2020, a civilian was the subject of threats issuedby her relatives who also obstructed the path to her home.Upon receiving the report the attending police officerwarned both the victim and one of the relatives to ceaseand desist from making threats. Enquires by the PCArevealed that no investigation was conducted in relation tothe report by the victim.The guidelines to police officers state that, “A threat to dophysical harm constitutes a criminal offence namely anassault” and they impress “...upon police officers theimportance of conducting detailed investigations wheneverreports of threats are made or received.”The information gathered by the PCA during its preliminaryinvestigation was referred to the COP for the considerationof disciplinary proceedings.2020- Police Warns Suspect and Victim Instead ofInvestigating Criminal Offence12

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In January 2021, a school teacher made a report to thepolice of an assault by her husband and his girlfriend.The receipt for the report that was recorded by the TTPSinvestigator for more than an hour, was not only incorrectlycoded but referred to a classification that did not mandate afull investigation as set out by the TTPS Standing Orders.This victim received injuries to her shoulders, leg and rightarm and was attended to at a private institution.The information gathered by the PCA during its preliminaryinvestigation was referred to the COP for the considerationof disciplinary proceedings.2021- Police Investigator Neglects in Civilian'sReport of Domestic Violence13

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In July, 2020 the PCA received a report by a civilian whowas in the process of concluding matrimonial proceedingsagainst her ex-husband, a retired Inspector of Police. Eventhough the parties had been separated for many years theycontinued to share the matrimonial home and in November,2019 the retired officer punched her in her face.The victim made a report at the Tunapuna Police Stationand a TTPS Investigator was assigned to her matter.The PCA’s investigation revealed that there was noevidence of any investigation by the police.2021- TTPS Fails to Investigate Allegations ofDomestic Violence At the Hands of Retired InspectorOf Police14cont'd.

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In July, 2020 a female SRP engaged in acts of domesticviolence against her mother.Reports were made against the officer at the police stationand each party brought proceedings for Domestic ViolenceOrders against each other. However, upon enquires by thePCA it was revealed that the Senior Officer in charge of thestation failed to appoint an investigator to look into thereports.Upon the conclusion of the PCA’s investigation its findingswere referred to the COP for the consideration ofdisciplinary proceedings for the failure to conduct a properand thorough investigation.Police Fail to Investigate Allegations of DomesticViolence by SRP15cont'd.

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In 2018 a civilian obtained a Protection Order against herbrother.Thereafter, the brother continued to engage in several actsof domestic violence and four (4) police officers weredetailed to investigate each report. One officer completedhis investigation and instituted criminal proceedings for thebreach of the order but that matter was dismissed by thepresiding magistrate for want of prosecution.Upon the conclusion of the PCA’s investigation its findingswere referred to the COP for the consideration ofdisciplinary proceedings for the failure to conduct properand thorough investigations by the police officers and thefailure to attend Court and present an investigative file forthe Court proceedings.Police Fail to Investigate Allegations of DomesticViolence 16

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In July, 2016, a civilian made a report of assault by beatingand threats by her husband to the police. An officer wasassigned to investigate this mater but failed to do so sincehe claimed he was assigned to the EMA and his duties didnot include investigating allegations of domestic violence.This report was never investigated by the TTPS.In August, the same civilian made a report of a breach of aprotection order which included details that her husbandwas armed with a weapon and drove in a dangerous mannerwhich put her life at risk. An officer was assigned toinvestigate this report and criminal proceedings werebrought against the assailant. However, the officer failed toattend court and no explanation was offered for hisabsence. Police Fail to Investigate Reports of DomesticViolence 17cont'd.

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The civilian was murdered by her husband weeks beforethis matter was tried in the magistrate’s court.The findings of the PCA’s investigation were referred to theCOP and advice was provided as it relates to the conduct ofinvestigations by the TTPS into reports of domesticviolence.Police Fail to Investigate Reports of DomesticViolence 17

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In August, 2021, female civilian and her daughter made areport that their relative threatened to, “…shoot up theplace.” This threat occurred after several repeated threatscommencing since 2017.Upon making the 2021 report the civilians were told by thepolice officers to go to the Court and make an applicationfor a Protection Order. There is no evidence that any actionwas taken by the officers who received the report.Upon the conclusion of the PCA’s investigation its findingswere referred to the COP for the consideration ofdisciplinary proceedings for the failure to conduct a properand thorough investigation.Police Fail to Investigate Reports of DomesticViolence 18

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(1) May 28 2019Retraining of police officers on the proper actions to betaken to investigate reports of Domestic Violence.(2) October 24, 2019Police officers must be reminded of the requirement tocomply with the procedures detailed in the TTPSStanding Order No. 53.(3) July 10, 2020Consideration to be given to relieve officers, who arethe subjects of Domestic Violence complaints, of theirTTPS issued firearm as well as their personal firearms(if any).(4) July 8 2021To consider placing greater emphasis on DomesticViolence reports, especially breaches of ProtectionOrders and to remind all police officers to exercise therequisite alacrity when investigating Domestic Violencematters given its prevalence and sensitive nature.

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(5)July 13, 2021On December 20th, 2018, pursuant to Section 26 ofthe Police Complaints Authority Act, Ch. 15:05, (PCAAct), the Police Complaints Authority (PCA)commenced an investigation into allegations publishedin print media that the police failed to conduct properinvestigations into numerous reports of DomesticViolence and reports of breach of a Protection Order,which were made by CTB (Deceased) against herhusband, AB, the most recent of which was made onJuly 19th, 2016 – Assault by beating. CTB was murdered by her husband, AB, in November,2016. cont'd

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The PCA’s investigation found that there was a primafacie case of Neglect of Duty by two officers for failingto investigate reports made by the Deceased. The PCArecommended that Disciplinary Action be taken againstthese officers. Additionally, the PCA provided thefollowing advice to the Office of the Commissioner ofPolice, pursuant to Section 21 (d) of the PCA Act: A. Police officers should be appropriately trained totreat with reports made by victims of DomesticViolence. More specifically, victims may be fearful ofthe repercussions of making a report to the policeconcerning an instance of Domestic Violence and mayrequest that the officers merely warn their abuser, aswas the case with Ms. CTB in her report of December19th, 2015. According to the Handbook on EffectivePolice Responses to Violence Against Womenpublished by United Nations Office on Drugs andCrime (“UNDOC”) “in such cases, police will need topay special attention to addressing and relieving thefears of the victim and to take specific steps to protectthe victim. cont'd

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This can include taking the victim to a shelter, seeking alegal Restraining Order against the offender where thelaw permits and working with the victim to create apersonal safety plan. All of this is in addition to theneed for a thorough police investigation, includingdetailed interviews of victims and witnesses, offenderinterrogation and the collection of evidence.”Additionally, officers should be reminded of theirobligation to respond to every report alleging DomesticViolence pursuant to the Domestic Violence Act, Ch.45:56. B. The supervising officer must provide the necessaryguidance and assistance to an assigned policeinvestigator into a report of Domestic Violence,especially where the matter may be of a particularlyvolatile and serious nature and the officer assigneddoes not have the requisite training to deal with such areport. The International Association of Chiefs of PoliceDomestic Violence Model Policy (updated April, 2019)states that the role of a police supervisor in a report ofDomestic Violence is as follows: cont'd

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-“1. Respond to assist officers investigating incidents ofDomestic Violence when requested by an officer orwhenever the incident appears to involve a lawenforcement officer, prominent community member, orpublic official. -2. Supervise the on-scene investigation, if not alreadycompleted, to ensure that appropriate action is taken. -3. Review all Domestic Violence reports for accuracyand consistency and conduct after-action reviews andDomestic Violence case audits to ensure officers andinvestigators are conducting comprehensive, victim-centred, perpetrator-focused investigations. -4. Assess for co-occurring and interconnected crimeswhen responding to Domestic Violence, to include butnot be limited to stalking, sexual violence,strangulation, firearms prohibitions, protection orderviolations, intimidation and threats, and abuse ofchildren, elders, and animals. cont'd

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-5. When making arrest decisions, officers shallconsider which individual appears to be thepredominant aggressor. -6. If an arrest is not made, the officer must provide anexplanation in the report as to the reason why. -7. When an arrest cannot be made due to lack ofprobable cause, the officer should (a) explain to thevictim the reasons that an arrest is not being made, and(b) facilitate contact with a local Domestic Violenceservice provider for information regarding counsellingand other services. -8. Dual arrests are strongly discouraged. If an officerhas probable cause to believe that two or more personscommitted a crime and probable cause exists to arrestboth parties, the arresting officer shall contact theirsupervisor before proceeding with the arrests. In theevent of a dual arrest, a separate report for each arrestshould be written and filed and should include adetailed explanation indicating the probable cause foreach arrest.” cont'd

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C. Police officers who are attached to specific agenciesand/or units, similar to the officer who was assigned tothe Environmental Management Authority, should notbe assigned to investigate matters outside the scope ofsuch postings, unless they have received specializedtraining which renders them competent to carry outanother specialized duty. All officers should bereminded of their overarching responsibilities inconducting an investigation, to wit,“An effective investigation, generally, is one where theinvestigator: - Acted in a professional, impartial, and objectivemanner,- Was diligent in the collection of physical evidenceand statements, - At all times treated all parties involved withrespect and dignity,- If there was an offence, identified the person(s)responsible and collected sufficient evidence to provethe case in court,- Took steps to address the safety needs of allinvolved. cont'd

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A good police investigator will: - Have a sense of process and understand itsimportance in an investigation- Thoroughly document all facets of theinvestigation- Have respect for evidence (what it is, its value andhow to collect, preserve and document it),- Take an analytical and creative approach toproblem-solving, - Effectively use all investigative tools and resourcesavailable.”[1][1] Handbook on Effective police responses to violence against women, supra.

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(6) March 23, 2022The PCA advised that reports of Domestic Violencemust be correctly recorded and the investigation ofsuch matters must be given a high level of priority.Consideration may be given to creating a standardpolicy which will outline in detail the manner in whichofficers must treat with a report of Domestic Violence,whether made via phone call or in person. An examplecan be drawn from the International Association ofChiefs of Police which, in 2006, adopted a model policyto establish international guidelines for policeresponding to Domestic Violence calls. In that policy,officers are expected:- To establish arrest and prosecution as a preferredmeans of police response to Domestic Violence;- To take appropriate action for any violation ofpermanent, temporary or emergency orders ofprotection;- To afford protection and support to adult and childvictims of Domestic Violence; cont'd

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- To promote the safety of law enforcementpersonnel responding to incidents of DomesticViolence;- To provide victims or witnesses of DomesticViolence with support and assistance throughcooperative efforts with community stakeholders inorder to prevent further abuse and harassment or both;- To complete thorough investigations and effectarrest of the predominant aggressor upon theestablishment of probable cause[2].The PCA also advised on this occasion that officersshould be reminded that pursuant to Section 21 of theDomestic Violence Act, Ch. 45:56, a police officer ismandated to respond to every complaint or reportalleging Domestic Violence. [2] United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Handbook on Effective police responses to violenceagainst women: https://www.unodc.org/documents/justice-and-prisonreform/Handbook_on_Effective_police_responses_to_violence_against_women_English.pdf

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(7) April 06, 2022 The PCA advised that all officers should be subject toroutine training on how to treat with victims of crimesof any kind. It is respectfully opined that this kind oftraining should not be limited to those officers whostaff specialized units, as more often than not, victims’first point of call would be their nearest police station,and only after the report is made is it transferred to aspecialized unit. In this regard, the PCA recommended to theCommissioner of Police (Ag.) that his office shouldconsider the International Association of Chiefs ofPolice (IACP) Training Supplemental which was created“recognizing that fiscal concerns often impact an agency’scapacity to provide adequate training, the Supplementalwas not developed as a stand-alone course requiringadditional resources and time. Instead, it outlines victimresponse enhancements that can be integrated into allexisting basic and advanced law enforcement curriculaand utilized with a minimum investment”. cont'd

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The Training Supplemental presents law enforcementagencies with content that can be customized toprovide every agency employee with specificknowledge, skills, abilities, and tools to better respondto victims of crime. This document or training of asimilar nature may assist officers as the training directlyaddresses key elements of victim responses, including: a) Effective Communication. Effective communicationskills are essential for establishing a positive andprofessional relationship with victims. Lawenforcement officers must remain cognizant that voicequality and tone, as well as non-verbal communication(facial expressions, gestures, body motions, andposture), convey intended or unintended messagesduring a conversation.b) Empathy. Officers must balance professionalinvestigatory conduct with an honest effort toempathize with the victim. cont'd

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b) Empathy. cont'd Taking the time to listen to thevictim, ensuring that support services are notifiedpromptly, and recognizing the victim’s need for safety,information, and voice are appropriate means ofprojecting an empathetic and caring position. As ageneral rule, officers should put themselves or a familymember in the victim’s situation. Understanding thevictim’s feelings and reacting in a supportive way canbuild rapport and trust with the victim, gain informationthat can assist the investigation, and demonstrate trueprofessionalism.c) Professionalism and Integrity. Crime victims haveexperienced a traumatic incident that shatters theirperception of personal safety, challenges their positiveviews of society, elicits feelings of mistrust and fear,and causes them to question many previously heldbeliefs. Crime victims are seeking to re-establish theirsense of stability and personal safety. Law enforcementofficers can contribute to this process by building areputation of professionalism and integrity. Aprofessional reputation is the foundation of aproductive relationship between the officer and thevictim. cont'd

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c) Professionalism and Integrity. cont'd Crime victimsneed to be able to feel confident that law enforcementofficers advocate for their interests, provide a measureof safety, actively investigate crime, and assist in theiraccess to needed services. Victims need to believe thatthe criminal justice system is competent and will striveto hold the offender accountable.

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(8) June 03, 2022 TTPS officers must be mindful that citizens reportingsensitive issues such as sexual offences ought to betreated with respect and empathy. Additionally,officers should be reminded of TTPS Standing OrdersNos. 53 and 17, which address the procedure to beadopted regarding domestic violence issues and StationDiary entries, respectively.(9) August 11, 2022 Reports of domestic violence must be entered in theDomestic Violence Register, which should befrequently reviewed by the Second Division Officer incharge of the station. Also, assigned investigatorsshould be called upon to report on the progress of theirinvestigations at any time. Additionally, assignedinvestigators should submit a monthly status updatereport to the Second Division Office in charge. Further,the assigned investigator should contact victims everyweek to ensure that further abuse has not occurred.Moreover, there should be mandatory trainingprograms for all members of the TTPS to educateofficers on the appropriate procedure when attendingto matters of a sensitive nature such as sexual anddomestic violence reports and how to communicatewith such victims.

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(10) April 19, 2023 and November 07, 2023Consideration to be given to reminding police officersof the need for expeditious and efficient investigationsinto reports, especially those concerning domesticviolence as per TTPS Standing Order No. 53. Theseinvestigations ought to be conducted thoroughlydespite the wishes of the person making the report.Additionally, where a victim of domestic violencesuffers from Battered Woman Syndrome or PostTraumatic Stress Disorder, they may refuse to takeaction against their abuser. (11) June 22, 2023 and August 22, 2023Consideration to be given to conducting investigationsinto all Domestic Violence reports regardless of whetherthe victim wishes to pursue further police action.Reports of Domestic Violence are of a serious naturethat require urgent attention and therefore same shouldbe dealt with accordingly. Furthermore, the Authorityreissued advice for consideration to be given to theimplementation of the following: - A. The Domestic Violence Register must be used torecord all reports relevant to Sexual and DomesticViolence. This register should be reviewed by theSecond Division Officer in charge of the stationfrequently and assigned investigators should be calledupon to report on the progress of their investigations atany time.Cont’d

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(11) June 22, 2023and August 22, 2023 cont’dB. Monthly reports should be submitted to the SecondDivision Officer in charge with a status update on theinvestigation and further work required to becompleted by the investigator assigned. C. After a report is made, investigators assigned to thematter should follow up with the victims on a weeklybasis to ensure that further abuse has not occurredsubsequent to the filing of their report. Thisrecommendation is critical as abuse victims are oftenapprehensive to report further information relative totheir report due to fear of their abuser or threats theymay have received.D. Police officers should be subjected to training on theprocedure when attending to matters of a sensitivenature such as Sexual or Domestic Violence Reports.Such diaries should also address the proper approachof an officer when communicating with victims ofabuse.In addition to the above, the Authority further advisedthat:-1. Officers interview victims of domestic abuse toassess the imminent danger they may be in and,dependant on the severity of the situation, assistanceshould be provided to escort the victim to a nearbysafe house; and

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(11) May 6, 2024Consideration be given to notifying all police officers ofthe judgment of cv201-03178 Tot Lampkin (asAdministratrix ad item and as next friend of KaidenGarcia, born on March 18th, 2014) v The AttorneyGeneral of Trinidad & Tobago.The PCA wishes to highlighted the following excerptsfrom the aforementioned judgment: - “163. …but it must examine whether reasonable stepswere taken to mitigate the potential harm to Samantha. 169. While I agree the Defendant that the TTPS’ timelyresponse to the second reported incident, arrivingfifteen minutes later and de-escalating the situation, Iconsider their failure to conduct follow up enquiries tobe unreasonable.”170. …Accordingly, it is therefore even moreimportant for the police to investigate reportedincidents to get a more fulsome picture of the victim’sharrowing reality. Cont’d

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(11) May 6, 2024 cont’d173. While I understand the administrative andresource challenges faced by the police, it cannot beacceptable that in a situation where there is criticalthreat to the life and limb of a family and minor childthat the unavailability of a vehicle could ever be asufficient excuse for inaction by the police. The TTPSought to have a mechanism in place enabling them toseek assistance from neighbouring police stations topromptly address live reports of threats to life and limbwhen their own capacity to respond is inadequate. 301. …Why then, does the police not know that everyreport or complaint of domestic violence must be takenseriously and investigated properly?302. More must be done, and more is required to bedone, by the State through its servants and agents, ashas been shown in this judgment derived from theleading authorities. Addressing domestic violencerequires a multifaceted approach.”The PCA urges the importance of putting appropriatemeasures in place to treat with reports of DomesticViolence.

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Section 3(G) of the Miscellaneous Provisions(Special Reserve and Police Complaints AuthorityAct) No. 11 of 2021 which amended the PCA Act ascribes a responsibility to the Commissioner ofPolice, Assistant Commissioner of MunicipalPolice or the Director of Public Prosecutions toprovide a written update on any action which hasbeen taken or is proposed to be taken as itrelates to a recommendation made by the PCA atthe conclusion of an investigation.

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This flip book was first posted on our websiteand made available to the public in 2022.The Director and I wanted to document thevolume of work that had been done in an areaof policing and crime that has now beencategorized as a public health issue.I remain grateful to the Director, David West,for his unwavering support and encouragementto me, not only when I first approached himwith the idea in 2018, but for his continuedadvice and mentorship on the advocacy that isrequired as a stakeholder in the war againstdomestic violence.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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My deepest and sincerest gratitude must beexpressed to Team Lead – Legal Counsel,Aveeta Rajnath and Legal Counsel 1, CasiannaSankar for co-drafting the introduction and Iremain thankful to our CommunicationsManager, Rachael Armorer-Singh, for the timeand effort in producing this feature.Our Investigations and Legal Departmentscontinue to give yeoman’s service. In particular,the efforts by Investigations Officer II BrendaCollymore are to be commended.This flip-book is dedicated to all of us who workin the trenches in a field that comes with itsown mental load.

Domestic Violence Report 2024

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