Police Response to Domestic Violence: A Case Study of TecSOS Mobile Phone Use in the London Metropolitan Police Service

Abstract

Police forces are constantly seeking to improve their service to victims of domestic abuse and to facilitate reporting of these offenses. Using a variety of police data, this case study describes the London Metropolitan Police Service's use of TecSOS mobile phone technology in responding to domestic abuse. The case study indicates that the rapid response made possible by TecSOS activations reduces the risk of repeat victimization. It also results in victim protection and empowerment, it increases the risk of apprehension for the offender and it strengthens evidence for prosecution by apprehending perpetrators in action, whether or not in the victim's home. The case study also suggests that TecSOS has potential for wider cost-saving public benefits. Most importantly, it was found that only a small minority of victims ever activated their phones suggesting that these serve as a powerful deterrent to would-be perpetrators. Language: en