Evidence-Based Prosecution for Intimate Partner Violence-Related Nonfatal Strangulation: Results From a Pilot Program in Puerto Rico

This study provides evaluation results of a pilot program to improve the response to intimate partner violence (IPV)-related nonfatal strangulation (NFS) in Puerto Rico. A Strangulation/ Suffocation Investigative Worksheet was formally incorporated into the Puerto Rico Department of Justice (PR-DOJ)to be used by prosecutors when strangulation was identified during the investigation of a domestic violence complaint. Legal outcomes of 296 IPV-related NFS cases prior to ( n = 121) and after implementation ( n = 175) of the pilot program were examined. Results show preliminary support for the effectiveness of a standardized investigative worksheet in facilitating prosecution of IPV-related NFS cases. Policy reforms that promote evidence-based prosecution for NFS through standardized investigative and evidence collection protocols are critical to ensuring offender accountability and survivor safety.