Overcoming Crawford: Innovative Approaches to VAWA Investigations

1 hour, 24 minutes

Publication Date: 2026

In 2004, the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark decision in Crawford v. Washington fundamentally changed how testimonial evidence can be used in criminal prosecutions. The Court ruled that statements made during police interrogations, formal interviews, and similar circumstances cannot be admitted at trial unless the defendant had an opportunity to cross-examine the witness - regardless of how reliable the statement appears. 

This creates unique challenges for VAWA crimes where victims often become unavailable due to fear, trauma, immigration concerns, or other factors common in domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking cases. 

This critical 90-minute webinar provides practical strategies to navigate constitutional evidence requirements while protecting victims and securing convictions. 

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Topic(s):

Investigations

VAWA Crime(s):

Dating Violence Domestic Violence Sexual Assault

Role(s):

Chief/Sheriff/Executive Fire/Emergency Medical Services First Line Supervisor Investigator/Detective Patrol Officer/Deputy Prosecutor