Problem
I. Some jurisdictions have a no drop policy in which the local District Attorney's office compels the victim to testify in domestic violence cases. If the victim backs out by dropping charges, refuses to testify, or otherwise tries to not participate in the prosecution of the case, the victim is put in jail for contempt of court. What do you think about this policy as an attempt to reduce victims from dropping charges in domestic violence cases?
II. Although the no drop policy can be effective because it prosecute the victims who dropped the charges on the offender, it is still a harsh punishment in my points of you, because you never know of the situation that the victim is in. For example, in a domestic violence case, if the mother who has been in a domestic violence relationship with her husband is a stay at home mom, she relies on her husband to provide for her family so she can either become homeless with her children and have her husband put in jail or drop the charges and continue to live an unhealthy relationship with her husband. Although there are resources for victims of domestic violence, some people can become overwhelmed, trying to figure out what you really want to do especially if they've been traumatized by their offender. Do You agree or disagree why or why not
III. I think the "no drop policy" is detrimental to the victim and to their experience. I do understand why this policy would be implemented. It would reduce the amount of false cases that are presented, but it also forces a victim to face their attacker against their wishes. This is a way of revictimizing the victim by forcing them to relive their trauma and have their power revoked. The no drop policy does not take into consideration if victims are harassed, afraid of their attacker, or in fear for their life. Once they file a report, even if they are threatened or manipulated, they have to continue on with the case or face jail time for "not cooperating." Their fear is not taken seriously making it difficult to fully help a victim find closure and truly get the help they need. In situations like this, it is always a lose-lose situation for the victim. As a result of this, the no drop policy provides a limited scope for victims by reducing false claims by forcing the hands of the victims and by increasing the penalty of lying. For many, it causes people not to try to make any allegation at all. Do You agree or disagree? why or why not?