Intimate Partner Violence: Conflicts of Priority in Police Practice

Lethal violence in intimate relationships is frequently preceded by less severe forms of abuse. In Sweden, the clearance rate for non-aggravated assault remains low, partly due to organisational goal conflicts within the police force. Consequently, the police face challenges in both resolving intimate partner violence (IPV) cases and preventing escalation into more serious violence. This study aims to advance understanding of the investigative process concerning IPV in Sweden and examine whether investigative measures differ depending on the relationship between victim and perpetrator – whether intimate, acquainted, or unfamiliar. The analysis draws on police investigations conducted in Stockholm between 2016 and 2021. Findings indicate that structural limitations, particularly victim non-cooperation, significantly constrain the investigation of non-aggravated IPV. This reluctance impacts the application of investigative measures and often leads to early case closures when prosecution appears unlikely. These results underscore the need for more effective strategies to enhance victim engagement and improve the overall investigative process in IPV cases.