"They Arrested MeAnd I Was the Victim": Women's Experiences With Getting Arrested in the Context of Domestic Violence

• NCJ Number: 243370
• Journal: Women & Criminal Justice Volume: 23 Issue: 2 Dated: April - June 2013 Pages: 81-98
• Author(s): Melissa E. Dichter
• Date Published: April 2013
• Length: 18 pages
• Grant Number(s): 1R49CE001226-01
• Sponsoring Agency: Ctr's for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study uncovers the experience of getting arrested from the perspective of women who were both victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) and arrested in IPV-related incidents.

Abstract

Since the implementation of mandatory and pro-arrest policies, there has been a sharp increase in the number of women arrested for violence against intimate partners; many of these women are also victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). Through questionnaires and interviews, this study uncovers the experience of getting arrested from the perspective of women who were both victims of IPV and arrested in IPV-related incidents. Women reported that their arrest was unexpected, led to multiple losses and collateral consequences, and served as a turning point in their relationships. Findings support emergency intervention services that include alternatives to arrest for women experiencing IPV. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.