On October 1, 2020, nonfatal strangulation became a specific felony in the State of Maryland. Strangulation survivors are 750% more likely to become a victim of homicide. A collaborative approach to investigation, prosecution, medical care and victim services is vital to enforcing the new law and to providing support for survivors of strangulation. This program will focus on the implementation of the new law, lethality risks associated with nonfatal strangulation, signs and symptoms of strangulation, and available community resources.
Learning Objectives:
1. To address the implementation of the new strangulation law.
2. To understand the differences between strangulation and choking.
3. To understand the lethality risks associated with strangulation.
4. To identify signs (or lack thereof) and symptoms of strangulation.
5. To identify community resources for victims of strangulation.
6. To discuss how community partners can work together in the identification of strangulation, provision of appropriate medical care, law enforcement investigation, and prosecution of cases.
Intended Audience: Law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel, 911 operators, prosecutors, and victim service providers
