This presentation analyzes discretionary power in domestic violence cases, as presented to a local police department. The presentation covers two situations, examining how laws, ordinances, policies, and procedures affect officers' decisions. Situation 1 involves a police officer responding to a domestic disturbance where a woman has a fresh bruise. The presentation analyzes the officer's discretionary power in deciding whether to arrest the husband, considering the Rhode Island statute and the couple's reconciliation. Situation 2 involves a scenario where a wife is accused of assaulting her husband. The presentation suggests a formal investigation and a warning instead of arrest, while also considering the agency's culture and the amount of discretion available to the officer. The analysis highlights the importance of internal and external decision-making processes, as well as the limitations and reliance on discretion in domestic violence cases.
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