Police Calls for Domestic Threats

Bravo for Don Jackson’s column, “Warnings From Victims of Domestic Violence Should Produce Protection” (Op-Ed Page, Sept. 29). Jackson clearly articulated that domestic violence victims do call for help, do ask for relief from the violence and do request protection from the abuser but their cries for help are often met with resentment. Domestic violence is often viewed by police officers as not being a “real” crime.

The lack of understanding and sensitivity to domestic violence issues in the Maria Navarro murder was highlighted when the lawsuit brought on behalf of Maria Navarro’s children failed to even mention that she was a battered woman. The system failed to protect her because this was a domestic violence case and the 911 operator did not know how to handle that call differently than other threatening phone calls.

Training for 911 operators is crucial. Not generalized training, but specific training that focuses on the ability to appropriately respond to domestic violence calls. These calls always involve physical assault to the victim. And, yes, formerly battered women and battered women’s shelter crisis lines are the experts in handling these highly dangerous calls. If an effective protocol is to be developed, it must include these experts in the formulation of policy and in training. Their presence should be part of an ongoing dialogue and training with law enforcement.

GAIL PINCUS

Director, Domestic Abuse Center

Northridge