Strangulation Program

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2013

Imagine being rendered unconscious, your neck swelling and your ears ringing. Now imagine that there is no physical evidence and no visible injuries to support your claims. It becomes your word against the perpetrator – who oftentimes is someone you know or may live with. Offenders often use strangulation as a tool to control their partner because it leaves no visible marks. Traditionally allegations of strangulation, especially in domestic violence matters, have been difficult to prove beyond a reasonable doubt. In 2011, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office (MCAO) partnered with local law enforcement agencies and Scottsdale Healthcare to create a “Strangulation Program.” This program provides investigators and prosecutors with the critical evidence to file criminal charges against strangulation suspects. In the past these suspects may have been released, often to re-abuse their victims. Under the program, police and first responders transport domestic violence victims to hospitals and family advocacy centers where Forensic Nurse Examiners conduct a specialized medical-forensic examination and collect advanced photographic documentation, DNA and other physical evidence to substantiate strangulation. Nurse Examiners are also available as the matter moves through the criminal justice system to provide expert witness testimony in court, allowing cases to proceed in instances where formerly a victim was unwilling or unable to testify.