LE324 - Family Violence

Question 1

Things to keep in mind when investigating family violence incidents

Answer 1

1. Refer to other procedures if they relate to them (LE027 Child protection, LE021 Elder abuse, LE007 Hate crime)
2. You may apply discretion in relation to family violence incidents
3. When a criminal act has been committed, officers shall not apprehend suspects under the Mental Health Act as an alternative to proceeding with appropriate charges under the Criminal Code. In the event criminal charges are laid against a Person in Crisis, officers shall consider whether it is also appropriate to apprehend the individual under the MHA and transport them to the nearest hospital for assessment.
4. YRP works in partnership with Victim Services of York Region (VSY) and Victim/Witness Assistance Program (VWAP), community and social service agencies and other local organizations to promote the development of an integrated service delivery framework for providing assistance to victims, including safety planning
5. Members should notify MHST@YRP.ca as applicable when encountering an individual who they feel would benefit from support services from the the community, if supports are not already in place.
6. The Newmarkert Mental Health Court Support Program provides support and advocacy to individuals 12 years and older who have mental illness, acquired brain injury, Alzheimer’s dementia, a developmental disability and/or addictions and are involved in the criminal justice system. To inquire about this services, call 1-877-345-0183 Ext 3321, email intake @CMHA-YR.ON.CA or visit www.CMHA-YR.on.ca