Episode 122: #SurvivorStories Series with Nanette Chezum on officer-involved domestic violence

en(gender)ed

On this episode of the en(gender)ed #SurvivorStories series, we speak with Nanette Chezum, a survivor of officer involved domestic violence or domestic abuse with a police officer. We speak with Nanette about her experience as a survivor, the response from law enforcement, and how her experience was both informed and enabled by a culture of sexism, misogyny, and victim-blaming in law enforcement that intersects with police brutality across the country. We also explore the relevance of proposed reforms such as “defunding the police” and “restorative justice” to building a culture of accountability for abuse.

During our conversation, Nanette and I referenced the following resources and topics:

• Colorado law eliminating qualified immunity
• Our interview with Nazir Afzal whose prosecutions of gender-based crimes helps prevent other crimes
• How implementation of the "Quincy Solution" can help prevent children from being harmed by domestic violence
• How juries have a hard time convicting police officers
• The Town of Castle Rock v Gonzales case which says that orders of protection don't require mandatory enforcement by the police
• How a person investigating the death of Michelle O'Connell in Florida, was herself, found dead
• NYC Police Benevolent Association's endorsement of Trump
• The dangers of using "restorative justice" practices with victims of domestic violence and how advocates of it weaponize race to justify its use for all survivors

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