NEW BRAINTREE, MA June 3, 2012 The literature in domestic violence is filled with anecdotes that bemoan the heightened risk to victims whenever firearms are involved. If a violent spouse uses a firearm to threaten his family he has thrust himself into the high risk classification. Arguably this man should not have firearms in his possession. Yet as intuitive as this may seem guns are used on a daily basis to kill and maim intimate partners. When protection orders are issued they should consider the presence of firearms and seize them whenever they are present.
Across America, Risk Assessment Teams convene in an effort to measure what factors elevate victim risk. Some use assessment tools like Jacqueline Campbell's Danger Assessment. This instrument makes a valid and reliable set of data that quantify the substantive level of danger in a given relationship. The highest risk Campbell identifies are behavioral constructs such as use of firearm, choking victim, and symbolic intimidation. Guns are considered a primary risk factor for homicide in cases of domestic violence.
More needs to be done to keep firearms away from abusive partners. Domestic violence is all about the abuse of power and control. When relationships evolve into such conflict external controls may be needed to assure for the safety of potential victims and children. Whenever domestic violence counselors collaborate on safety plans with potential victims the first question is are there guns in the home? Judges and prosecutors are being asked to provide high bail for cases of domestic violence whenever high risk indicators are present such a making threats with firearms. In the ast 9 months this blog has published several case studies. One in particular resulted in the homicide of 3 innocent members of one family from northern Maine. Moments after police responded to the home, the estranged husband killed himself soon after killing Amy, Monica, and Coty Lake.
