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About Abuse

When the Abuser is in Law Enforcement

Updated: May 9, 2024

My abusive spouse or partner works in law enforcement. What are some possible risks?

When the abuser is in a position of power, the victim may face special risks. You may be in greater danger because an officer:

  • can carry a gun;
  • can misuse his/her power to harass and isolate you;
  • can influence how other officers report and investigate abuse;
  • will often know the locations of emergency shelters; and
  • may know how to manipulate the system and blame you to avoid being charged.1

1 When your abuser is a police officer, Domesticviolenceshelters.org (2015)

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