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Newport News Police Department
duty supervisor and handled in accordance with ADM-270 Administrative/Internal Investigations:
[26.3.7]
5. Personnel are also governed by ADM-210 Standards of Conduct/Disciplinary Action.
E. In cases where the alleged predominant aggressor of domestic violence, act of violence, force or threat
(§19.2-152.7:1), or stalking is a law enforcement officer for any other local, state, or federal agency (to
include private security agencies and Special Conservators of the Peace), notification shall be made to
their immediate supervisor to enable the officer’s agency to take appropriate action and/or initiate an
administrative investigation.
III. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ARREST AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
A. Arrest Procedures
1. The responding officer shall make every attempt to determine who the predominant aggressor is,
based on the totality of the circumstances. The first disputant to use violence may be considered in
this regard; however, this should not be the only factor and may not always indicate the predominant
aggressor. Officers should also take into consideration:
a. The party posing the most serious threat.
b. The party possessing the most ability and inclination to inflict physical injury.
c. Which party has the greatest need for protection and/or safety.
d. The severity of the injuries inflicted and if some or all are self-inflicted.
e. Whether one or more of the disputants is under the influence of any substance(s);
f. The probability that further violence or injury will occur.
g. The input of any witnesses to the altercation.
h. Whether any injuries were inflicted in self-defense.
i. Prior complaints of family abuse by one of the parties.
2. If the officer is unable to identify a predominant aggressor, and it appears that the parties have been
involved in mutual combat, the officer shall consult their supervisor before filing assault charges
against all parties. In most instances, a predominant aggressor can be established, and dual assault
charges should not be filed.
3. Officers shall arrest those persons who have been identified as committing acts of violence against a
family or household member when the arrest can be supported by the complaint of the victim and/or
other circumstances or evidence that an act of violence has occurred.
4. In the event that the aggressor has left the scene, the investigating officer shall obtain the warrant(s)
and make arrangements to have the warrants served as soon as possible.
5. Types of offenses for which an officer shall arrest/obtain warrants include, but are not limited to:
a. Any felony.
b. A victim who alleges previous assaults by the same person.
c. An abuser who is intoxicated or has consumed drugs.
d. A weapon is used to injure, threaten or intimidate the victim.
e. A high degree of probability that further violence or injury will occur.
f. A violation of a valid protective order.
g. Any offense that is committed in the officer’s presence.
h. Any assault that leaves marks on the victim (e.g. cut, bruise, swelling or abrasion) or that results
in internal injuries.
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