Programs & Initiatives | Calling the Police | Arresting Offenders

NYC Police Department and Domestic Violence
Fear for personal safety is a major reason victims of domestic violence leave their homes. New York City has made the effectiveness of its criminal justice system a high priority in its strategy to reduce domestic violence. Personnel from the NYPD respond to calls for help, make arrests, provide referrals and follow-up visits to victims.

If I am an immigrant, can I call the police?
Domestic violence occurs in every country in families of all races, cultures, religions and income levels. No matter what your immigration status, if someone is abusing you, help is available.

It is the policy of the New York City Police Department not to inquire about the immigration status of crime victims, witness, or others who call or approach the police seeking assistance.
Read Executive Order 41 (in PDF)

What constitutes a family offense in New York State?
A Family Offense is any act which may constitute:

• Harassment - 1st or 2nd degree.
• Assault - 2nd degree or Attempt.
• Disorderly conduct (including acts amounting to Disorderly Conduct NOT committed in a public place).
• Aggravated harassment - 2nd degree.
• Assault - 3rd degree or Attempt.
• Reckless endangerment.
• Menacing - 2nd or 3rd degree that is committed by one member of the same family or household against another.
• Stalking - 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th degrees.

How is the term, "members of the same family or household" defined?
As defined in the Family Court Act, a Family or Household includes persons who:

• Are legally married to one another.
• Were formerly legally married to one another.
• Are related by marriage (affinity).
• Are related by blood (consanguinity) and/or have a child in common regardless of whether such persons have been married or lived together at any time.
• These cases are typically heard in Family Court or Supreme Court.

Under the Expanded NYPD Definition, Family or Household also includes persons who:

• Are not legally married, but are currently living together in a family-type relationship.
• Are not legally married, but formerly lived together in a family-type relationship.
• A family or household thus includes common law marriages, same sex couples, registered NYC domestic partners, different generations of the same family, siblings, and in-laws.
• These cases are typically heard in Criminal Court.