Understanding the factors that predict victim retraction in police reported allegations of intimate partner violence

摘要

ObjectiveA large number of victims of intimate partner violence (IPV), who report their victimisation to the police, subsequently either retract or disengage from the police investigation. Given that we have a very limited understanding of victim retraction/disengagement in IPV cases, this study addresses this gap by identifying the victim, perpetrator, and offence characteristics that predict retraction/disengagement.MethodFive hundred and twenty-four cases of police reported IPV were analysed to examine victim, perpetrator, and offence characteristics that may predict retraction or disengagement as well as examining the reasons given for retracting/disengaging from the police investigation.ResultsThe results indicated a high level of retraction or disengagement from police investigations. Victim and perpetrator characteristics did not predict retraction or disengagement; however, in comparison with cases where the victims maintain engagement with the case, a number of offence related characteristics (e.g., risk assessment level) did predict retraction and disengagement.ConclusionsVictim retraction and disengagement is a significant issue in the successful prosecution of IPV cases, and the findings suggest that certain offence related characteristics increase the likelihood of victim retraction/disengagement.