Domestic Violence

Domestic/Family Violence Policy

It is the policy of the Kingston Police Service to protect human life by vigorously investigating incidents of domestic/family violence and supporting victims through a coordinated community response designed to improve the quality of life.

Domestic/Family Violence

Is any use of physical or sexual force, actual or threatened, including emotional/psychological abuse or harassing behaviour or threats to harm children, other family members or pets by a family member.

Criminal Harassment (Stalking)
Occurs when a person repeatedly follows or watches (stalks), communicates or threatens another and where the victim reasonably fears for their safety or for the safety of anyone known to them. (For a complete definition refer to Section 264 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

What victims can do?
If you think you may be the victim of domestic/family violence, call police or one of the support groups linked to this site.

View more information on our suggested Safety Plans: Personal Safety Plan
View more information for youth and kids here: Youth & Kids

What police will do?
  • Conduct a thorough investigation
  • Advise victims that police will lay charges when reasonable grounds exist
  • Advise that neither police nor victims can withdraw charges
  • Obtain statements (Written/Videotaped)
  • Take photographs (Scene/Injuries) when appropriate
  • Gather evidence (Answering Machine Tapes/Notes/Etc)
  • Obtain services of interpreters when needed
  • Provide support for children when present
  • Provide a Safety Plan when appropriate
  • Provide information about available victim services
  • Suggest another place of safety when concerns exist
  • Remain until satisfied there is no further threat to victim
  • Complete a Risk Assessment when charges are laid in cases of intimate relationships
  • Where charges are not laid, give advice on Restraining Orders, Peace Bonds and how to contact shelters and Victim Services of Kingston.

For further information on Family Violence:
Locally, Kingston Interval House.
Crisis Line 613-546-1777
No Charge Dial 1-800-267-9445
Admin 613-546-1833
If Busy Call 613-546-4136.