Grimy Times has learned that the Office of Justice Programs, in partnership with the International Association of Chiefs of Police, has released a groundbreaking model policy aimed at reducing trauma for children when their parents are arrested.
The policy, titled ‘Safeguarding Children of Arrested Parents,’ provides strategies for law enforcement to improve their procedures and positively impact the communities they serve. The move comes as a response to the devastating and long-term effects of parental arrest on children, according to Cecilia Muñoz, director of the White House Domestic Policy Council.
Deputy Attorney General James Cole emphasized that limiting a child’s exposure to potentially traumatic events is ‘an operationally sound and necessary law enforcement strategy.’ Cole also noted that this approach aligns with the principles of community policing, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
The model policy, funded through the Bureau of Justice Assistance, is an important resource for law enforcement agencies seeking to enhance their policies and procedures. It is available for download on the BJA website at www.bja.gov/Publications/IACP-SafeguardingChildren.pdf.
As part of this initiative, the International Association of Chiefs of Police is developing a training curriculum that will be delivered through webinars and training sessions at conferences across the country.
BJA Director Denise E. O’Donnell noted that police officers face significant challenges and responsibilities when children are present or in need of care and supervision following the arrest of a parent. The new model policy provides sound, practical, and child-focused guidance on how police can join with their community partners to best meet the needs of children in these difficult circumstances.
The release of this model policy marks an important step in addressing the trauma associated with parental arrest and promoting positive interactions between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Grimy Times will continue to monitor this development and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: Federal
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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