Greenwich Third-Degree Assault Investigations

Greenwich may be unique in terms of domestic violence third-degree assault in that the police to take the cases more seriously than in some other cities or states. Local police receive a lot of calls for that type of crime and an arrest is made almost every time. The officers are trained to respond and investigate that type of allegation. They also are trained to do a lethality screening and refer an alleged victim to Victim Services offered through Greenwich. In fact, there are many elements involved in Greenwich third-degree assault investigations, which is why it is important to work with a qualified third-degree assault lawyer. A skilled attorney could pursue a positive outcome for individuals facing third-degree charges.

Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

The prosecution can attempt to prove a domestic violence third-degree assault charge in three ways during Greenwich third-degree assault investigations. One is showing that a person intended to cause a physical injury to another and did so. Another way is to show that a person recklessly caused a serious physical injury, such as a broken bone, concussion, or something similar to another person. They also can show that someone was criminally negligent and they caused a physical injury by means of a deadly weapon or a dangerous instrument. The most common of the three is that someone intended to cause physical injury and did so, usually something as simple as striking another person or pushing them, but not so seriously that needed to go to the hospital or doctor.

Role of Intent in Assault Investigations

Intent to cause physical injury can influence a domestic violence/assault case because it is what the state needs to prove for a charge of assault in the third-degree. With intent, the state does not need a serious injury or a weapon to be involved, just a normal physical injury. The most common type of evidence used by the prosecution in a third-degree case is a statement from the person allegedly assaulted or a third party who complained. Typically, once the police are called, they will they will interview the complainant see if there were apparent injuries such as redness, a bruise, swelling, bleeding, or something like that. If so, they typically also take a picture of it.

Assumptions About Domestic Violence That Could Impact the Investigation?

Some popular assumptions or generalizations about domestic violence that may color Greenwich third-degree assault investigations include a common one of someone calling the Greenwich Police Department because they are having a fight with their significant other. They want the police to perhaps just separate everyone, tell them to cool off, give them a verbal warning and then leave. That popular assumption is false, especially in Connecticut. When the police are called, typically they will arrest one or both parties. That is usually especially helpful for the person if the person labeled an alleged victim does not favor the prosecution. If an individual is the subject of a third-degree assault investigation, they should consult a seasoned assault lawyer that could pursue a positive outcome for them.