Police

Early Intervention Is Key: Preventing Intimate Partner Homicide

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In recent years, the threat posed by abusive partners has grown more alarming. A number of intimate partner homicide cases have not only shocked the public but left families and loved ones devastated.

A common thread in many of these cases is the lack of early intervention. Victims often fail to seek help or apply for protective orders in time. Some go through repeated cycles of breaking up and reconciling with their abusive partner—even after a restraining order has been denied or violated—remaining trapped in toxic, suffocating relationships until it ends in tragedy.

To address this, Taiwan’s government has introduced the “Abusive Partner Clause”, aimed at enabling earlier police intervention to prevent such outcomes.

Victims are urged to take action as soon as possible to protect themselves.
If the abuser knows their home address, relocating may be necessary. It is also crucial to cut off all communication, seek help from the police or local social services, and apply for a restraining order if needed to fully sever contact and ensure safety.

 

What Happens After a Police Report: The Response Process

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• Police Response to Intimate Partner Violence: A Growing Concern

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Intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a serious and persistent social issue in Taiwan. Police report that they receive at least one IPV-related case per week.
Officer Lin, currently serving at Banqiao Shalun Police Station, shared that in his two and a half years of service, he has handled three to five IPV reports, involving emotional abuse, physical violence, and more sensitive cases of sexual violence. Most involved cohabiting partners, dating couples, or married spouses, typically in their 20s to 30s.

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• What Happens After a Report Is Filed

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When responding to IPV cases, police first ask whether the victim has a temporary restraining order and any related evidence. They assist with the formal report and notify social workers to provide further support.

Since March 1, 2011, Taiwan has implemented a Domestic Violence Safety Protection Network, where frontline professionals—including police, healthcare workers, and social workers—use the Taiwan Intimate Partner Violence Danger Assessment (TIPVDA) tool to determine if the case qualifies as high risk.

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• Advice from Law Enforcement

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Officer Lin advises victims to inform trusted people about their situation, carry self-defense tools, and call the police immediately if they feel unsafe.
Staying calm and confident, and seeking proper help, are crucial steps. However, police emphasize that the choice to report must come from the individual—repeated hesitation or retraction can limit the ability of law enforcement to intervene effectively.

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• Real Case: Sexual Coercion Within a Relationship

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Officer Lin recalled a case involving sexual violence between dating partners, where one party was coerced into sex. After the victim sought police assistance, the report was processed accordingly.
Police encouraged the victim to block the abuser, consider moving to a safer location, and report all future threats.

 

Police emphasize that whether to take action or forgive the abuser is entirely up to the individual. Law enforcement can offer guidance and support, but the final decision lies with the victim.

Officers cannot intervene in personal matters without the consent of the individuals involved. They must respect the individual’s wishes while providing appropriate assistance and recommendations.

Every incident has its own context and buildup. Recognizing early warning signs—such as rising tension or controlling behavior—is essential. When addressed early, law enforcement can step in and help prevent tragedy before it escalates.