Major Crimes Domestic Violence Unit

Domestic Violence Detectives

Misty Darland

Candace Daugherty: (931) 221-1183

James Howard: (931) 221-1182

Domestic Violence Victim Assistant Program

A Domestic Violence Victim Assistant’s role is to serve as the liaison between victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and personnel in local law enforcement agencies in order to aid in offender prosecution. It is also a top priority of the Clarksville Police Department Domestic Violence Victim Assistant program to offer information to victims that promotes safety, along with other needed resources, as well as provide a step-by-step explanation of the court process to empower the victim to stop the cycle of violence.

Domestic Violence Victim Assistant:

Natalie Blackmon (931) 221-1181
Other line (931) 221-1180

Victim’s Rights

Overview of Tennessee Victim Rights -- Constitution

• The right to confer with the prosecution.

• The right to be free from intimidation, harassment and abuse throughout the criminal justice system.

• The right to be present at all proceedings where the defendant has the right to be present.

• The right to be heard, when relevant, at all critical stages of the criminal justice process as defined by the General Assembly.

• The right to be informed of all proceedings, and of the release, transfer or escape of the accused or convicted person.

• The right to a speedy trial or disposition and a prompt and final conclusion of the case after the conviction or sentence.

• The right to restitution from the offender.

• The right to be informed of each of the rights established for victims.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am confused, scared, etc. who do I call for support?

Domestic Violence Victim Assistants
(931) 221-1180 or (931) 221-1181
(during normal business hours)
If it is an emergency and/or after hours, call for assistance from the Clarksville Police Department.

Why was an arrest made?

An officer cannot base his/her decision on whether to arrest or not at the request of the victim. If the officer determines that a crime was most likely committed, “the preferred response of the officer is arrest.” The decision of whether to arrest someone, by Tennessee Law, is based on whether or not a crime occurred and is not based on the “consent or request of the victim.”

What is a COR?

Conditions of Release (COR) are rules established by the Tennessee Law – most often involving cases of domestic assault. T.C.A. Section 40-11-150. These rules are designed to insulate victims of domestic abuse from intimidation or further acts of violence before a judge has an opportunity to review the case.

How do I obtain an Order of Protection?

1. Legal Aid Society 1-800-342-3317
or
2. Circuit Clerk’s Office (931) 648-5700
or
3. Private Attorney

Make sure when taking out an order or protection that you are truthful about all the facts of your case. Once the paperwork is done a judge will then decide to sign a temporary order until a court hearing is held to issue a permanent order of protection.

May I drop the charges?

No. Because criminal warrants are brought by the State of Tennessee and because criminal warrants are issued by a judge – only the judge can dismiss the case. Your best option to dismiss a case is to appear on your trial date and speak with a District Attorney.

What if I don’t come to court on the trial date?

You may be arrested and required to post a surety bond to assure your appearance at the next court date. If you intentionally fail to appear in court, you could be found in contempt of court which can include incarceration and/or fines. Please contact the Domestic Violence Victim Assistant for the Clarksville Police Department if you have a conflict with the trial date.