When Language Matters: A Strangulation Case Review of a Victim with Limited English Proficiency
Strangulation is one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence and correlates to an approximately 750% increased risk of homicide to the victim. Strangulation victims with limited English proficiency face unique challenges when seeking medical and legal support that require a trauma informed and culturally sensitive approach. It is imperative to develop and implement procedures to refer ALL victims of nonfatal strangulation for a medical forensic examination.
Using both a criminal justice and medical lens, this webinar will help remove barriers around language to establish better emergency care for victims. During this presentation, a strangulation case involving an English language learner will be reviewed, from the initial 911 call to the medical evaluation and through the court process. Mitigating revictimization is crucial to ensuring that those affected by violence feel safe and supported, and are able to participate in the investigation and prosecution.
Content warning: Presentation contains graphic images of injuries caused by violence.
Objectives
As a result of this webinar, participants will be better able to:
Discuss ways law enforcement agencies, medical staff, and prosecutors can incorporate cultural sensitivity with a victim who has limited English proficiency
Identify trauma-informed practices that should be implemented by all disciplines that respond to domestic violence
Analyze a case review to enhance the investigative and prosecutorial response to domestic violence and strangulation in a case involving an English language learner
