Family Violence and Animal Cruelty

Description

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services in partnership with The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is pleased to announce this virtual training titled, “Family Violence and Animal Cruelty”.

The HSUS provides training to thousands of law enforcement officers across the country each year on investigating and prosecuting animal abuse. 

There is a significant correlation between intimate partner violence and violence against animals. Victims will often refuse to leave their abusers out of fear that their beloved pet would be harmed, and not having a safe place that will shelter them both. Largely because of this important link, The National Sheriffs’ Association formed an animal cruelty committee, and acts of animal abuse are now tracked alongside felony crimes like arson, assault, and homicide in the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s criminal database. This seminar will address the link between animal cruelty and other violent crime, as well as tips for a successful investigation.

Topics to be covered: 

• The connection between intimate partner violence and animal crimes 

• Animal abuse as an indicator for future violence

• Recognizing evidence and investigative techniques 

• Working collaboratively with stakeholders in the community

• Local and national resources available for support with cases 

Who should attend?

This training is open to sworn law enforcement officers.

Partial In-service Credit

Partial In-Service Credit for sworn law enforcement officers is available for this course (2 Career Development Hours). You must be present for the duration of the course to receive credit. 

Cost

There is no fee to attend this training.