Colorado POST Practice Exam

When physical violence is evident during a domestic call, what action should be taken?

1. Talk to both parties before deciding

2. Call for backup before proceeding

3. Arrest the aggressor

4. Document everything and leave

The correct answer is: Arrest the aggressor

In situations where physical violence is evident during a domestic call, the most appropriate action is to arrest the aggressor. This response is pivotal for ensuring the safety of all individuals involved, particularly any victims who may be at risk of further harm. By making an arrest, law enforcement can take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation and protect individuals from ongoing violence. Additionally, most jurisdictions have established policies that dictate a pro-arrest stance in domestic violence cases, which helps to reinforce the seriousness of the offense and offers a level of legal protection for the victim. This approach is also aligned with the objective of prevention, as it can deter future incidents of violence by holding offenders accountable for their actions. While other actions, such as calling for backup or documenting the scene, hold importance in different contexts, the primary responsibility in the face of imminent physical violence is to prioritize the safety of individuals by removing the aggressor from the situation. Therefore, making an arrest is crucial to effectively addressing the immediate threat posed in a domestic violence scenario.