Domestic Violence

Definition:
Domestic Violence is any use of physical, sexual force or psychological actual or threatened, in an intimate relation ship. Although both women and men can be victims of domestic violence the overwhelming majority of violence involves men abusing women. (Intimate relationship includes those between the opposite-sex and same sex partners. These relationships vary in duration and legal formality and include current and former dating, common-law and married couples.) Domestic violence may include a single act of abuse and may include physical assault, threats, and emotional psychological and sexual abuse.

It is the goal of the Hamilton Police Service to reduce incidents of domestic violence by providing an effective response, which is sensitive to the needs of victims.

The Victim Services Branch and the Family Violence Resource Unit of the Hamilton Police Service in conjunction with our community partners work together to ensure a seamless continuum of service for victims of domestic violence.