ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) has taken a major step to enhance its response to domestic violence with the launch of a dedicated Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART). Established in December 2022, the team is designed to address the complexity of domestic violence cases and provide consistent support to victims while working to hold repeat offenders accountable.
DART is composed of 30 officers who undergo specialized training beyond standard police instruction, including legal procedures, investigative techniques, and victim advocacy strategies. The team is structured to develop ongoing relationships with victims, particularly in households or cases that have a history of recurring domestic violence incidents. By assigning officers to repeated calls in the same households, APD hopes to foster trust with victims and create a more sustained and effective response.
“When officers respond multiple times to the same household, they gain insight into the ongoing issues and can build trust with victims,” said Jeffery Barnard, Commander of APD’s Criminal Investigation Division. “This relationship allows officers to guide victims to resources and intervene in ways that aim to resolve these situations more permanently, rather than simply reacting to individual incidents.”
Building Trust and Preventing Escalation
One of the key goals of DART is to prevent violence before it escalates. Officers familiar with the history of a case are better positioned to make informed decisions and provide critical information to prosecutors. This proactive approach helps ensure that repeat offenders can face preventive detention hearings if necessary.
“When dealing with repeat violent offenders, having officers who know the history of the case means we can work closely with district attorneys to request detention hearings before a suspect is released,**” Commander Barnard explained. “This kind of coordination helps protect victims and the community while ensuring the legal process is more effective.”
The unit’s deep knowledge of cases also supports the collection of evidence, preparation of court reports, and communication with prosecutors, increasing the likelihood that charges will hold up in court and that victims’ safety will be prioritized.
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Collaboration with Community Organizations
DART’s mission extends beyond law enforcement. Officers partner with local support organizations to ensure victims have access to critical services. These services include assistance with filing restraining orders, navigating the legal process, finding safe housing, and accessing counseling and other mental health resources.
“This holistic approach allows officers to connect victims with resources that can help them leave abusive situations safely and rebuild their lives,” Barnard said. “Law enforcement alone cannot solve the complex issues associated with domestic violence, so collaboration with community partners is key.”
Recent Operations and Results
APD’s commitment to proactive intervention was demonstrated during a recent one-day operation targeting repeat domestic violence offenders. Led by the Criminal Investigations Unit, the operation resulted in two arrests, the filing of nine arrest warrants, and 11 cases referred to the district attorney’s office.
In addition to holding offenders accountable, the operation allowed officers to identify families at high risk and connect them with support services. By addressing potential crises before they escalate, DART helps ensure that victims receive both immediate protection and long-term support.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
As October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, APD has emphasized that operations like these will continue throughout the month. The department encourages the public to recognize the signs of domestic violence and to reach out for assistance if they or someone they know is at risk.
“The visibility of Domestic Violence Awareness Month gives us an opportunity to highlight our ongoing work and the resources available to victims,” said Barnard. “It also serves as a reminder to our community that domestic violence is preventable and that support is available.”
A Model for Sustained Response
DART represents a shift in how police departments can approach domestic violence, emphasizing prevention, relationship-building, and community collaboration. Traditional responses often focus on single incidents, but repeat offenses require a more sustained and strategic approach. By creating continuity between officers and households, DART fosters trust and encourages victims to engage with resources that can protect them in the long term.
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“This isn’t about responding to one call and leaving—it’s about staying engaged and making sure the victim knows they have consistent support,” Barnard said. “Domestic violence is a complex issue, and solving it requires both immediate action and ongoing attention.”
Training and Specialization
Officers assigned to DART receive enhanced training to handle the unique challenges domestic violence cases present. They learn to identify patterns of abuse, assess the risk of escalation, and coordinate with both law enforcement and community organizations. This specialization ensures that each case receives the attention it needs and that victims are not left without support.
Looking Ahead
The Albuquerque Police Department plans to continue expanding DART’s efforts, refining its methods, and maintaining strong partnerships with local organizations. By combining law enforcement expertise with community resources, the department aims to reduce repeat domestic violence incidents and provide victims with the tools they need to achieve safety and independence.
“Domestic violence is a cycle that can be broken,” Barnard said. “With trained officers, community collaboration, and consistent support for victims, we can make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families across Albuquerque.”
Through initiatives like DART, APD hopes to create a model of sustained, effective domestic violence intervention that other cities and departments can replicate, combining proactive law enforcement with a strong support network for victims.
