What is the primary goal of peace officers in situations involving family violence?

The primary goal of peace officers in situations involving family violence is to prevent further criminal offenses. When responding to incidents of family violence, officers are trained to prioritize the safety of victims and any children involved, as well as to de-escalate potentially volatile situations. Their presence and intervention aim to stop the cycle of violence and prevent further harm.

By preventing additional offenses, peace officers play a critical role in ensuring the immediate safety of individuals, potentially leading to a longer-term resolution such as assisting victims in accessing resources or support services. The focus is on protecting victims and ensuring that the situation does not escalate, rather than simply managing disputes or establishing blame, which can detract from the urgency of ensuring safety.