The Police Response Subcommittee Meeting held on February 25, 2025, focused on improving the handling of domestic violence cases and ensuring timely police response to warrants. The discussions highlighted the need for clearer communication and accountability between police departments and prosecutors to prevent delays that could jeopardize victim safety.

A key concern raised was the potential for serious incidents to occur while warrants are pending. Members emphasized the importance of establishing protocols to ensure that warrants are processed efficiently and that victims are protected. Suggestions included implementing language that mandates police departments to have procedures in place for handling cases when officers are unavailable due to vacations or medical leave. This would help prevent cases from stagnating and ensure that victims receive timely support.

The subcommittee also discussed the inclusion of the Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) in the model law enforcement policy on family violence. This protocol is designed to identify victims at high risk of severe harm and ensure they receive appropriate resources. Members expressed support for adopting this best practice, noting that it aligns with Connecticut's commitment to addressing domestic violence effectively.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgency of refining policies to enhance victim safety and improve the responsiveness of law enforcement agencies. The subcommittee plans to draft specific language for these policies and will reconvene to discuss further developments in their next meeting.