Police pressing charges

A predator bent on gain from someone he considers weaker will change his mind quickly if attacked by his victim. After allj he doesn t want to press charges against a victim. Nor does he want to explain a wound which has to be reported to the police. In most cases, he simply can t afford resistance to any degree. 

If police want to press charges, take their details for follow-up... 

Even if Priya chooses not to press charges, the incident should be discussed with the Trust legal team reported to the police. 

If ED want to press charges, police can arrest him, e.g. for assault, damage to property, threats to kill, drunk and disorderly behaviour (Box 74.1)... 

Police may be reticent to get involved when someone s mentally ill, but teams should decide if this would be helpful, especially if there s been an assault Pressing charges reinforces the message that aggression is unacceptable, and may facilitate appropriate care, e.g. forensic team input Always discuss with senior colleagues, and involve the local mental health police liaison officer, if available. 

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