Overview - 4-Day Advanced Course on Strangulation Prevention

Training Overview

Strangulation has been identified as one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence and sexual assault. Loss of consciousness can occur within seconds, and death within minutes. When offenders strangle their victims—particularly to the point of unconsciousness—it not only constitutes a serious felony offense but may indicate an attempted homicide. As a powerful tactic of coercion and control, strangulation often leaves minimal visible injury while causing profound physiological and psychological harm. The experience of being unable to breathe is among the most terrifying events a person can endure, underscoring the urgency of effective identification, response, and intervention.

This advanced four-day training is designed for multidisciplinary professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in the recognition, investigation, prosecution, and response to non-fatal strangulation and suffocation assaults. Drawing on the knowledge of leading national experts, the course provides a comprehensive and evidence-based examination of strangulation in the context of intimate partner violence and sexual assault.

Participants will explore key research findings, including insights from a study of 300 misdemeanor strangulation cases, to better understand patterns, case outcomes, and missed opportunities for intervention. The training examines the lethality of strangulation and its documented links to escalating violence, including homicide, officer-involved shootings, and mass casualty events—highlighting its critical role as a predictor of future danger. Through an in-depth review of anatomy and physiology, learners will gain a clear understanding of how strangulation impacts the body in both surviving and non-surviving victims. Emphasis will be placed on recognizing subtle signs and symptoms, including delayed and potentially life-threatening complications, even when external injuries are absent.

Participants will develop advanced skills in investigating and documenting strangulation cases in both domestic violence and sexual assault contexts. Practical guidance will be provided on evidence collection, medical-forensic documentation, and effective report writing that supports prosecution. Legal considerations will be addressed throughout the course, including charging decisions, case strategy, and navigating the complexities of cases involving surviving victims.

The training also focuses on building strong cases through the strategic use of expert witnesses and multidisciplinary collaboration. Participants will learn how to identify, prepare, and utilize experts to effectively convey the medical and scientific realities of strangulation in court.

A victim-centered approach is woven throughout the curriculum, emphasizing trauma-informed practices and advocacy strategies that support survivors while enhancing engagement and case outcomes. Attendees will also receive tools, resources, and handouts developed by the Institute to support implementation in their own jurisdictions.

By the conclusion of this four-day advanced course, participants will have gained a comprehensive, multidisciplinary understanding of strangulation cases and will be better equipped to respond with confidence, improve investigative outcomes, and enhance victim safety.