When should the LAP Screen protocol be initiated?

The LAP Screen protocol, which stands for Lethality Assessment Protocol, is specifically designed to identify victims of domestic violence who are at heightened risk of severe harm or fatality. Initiating this protocol is critical in high-danger domestic violence incidents because it helps assess the level of danger a victim may face and connects them to the necessary resources and support services.

In cases involving high danger domestic violence crimes, officers are trained to recognize indicators that suggest a victim's life is at significant risk, such as the presence of weapons, threats of lethal violence, or prior incidents of severe violence. By implementing the LAP Screen at these critical moments, officers can effectively gather critical information that may lead to the protection of the victim and the prevention of further violence.

Other options provided do not align with the primary purpose of the LAP Screen. While domestic disturbances might seem like an appropriate time to use the screening, not all disturbances warrant such an assessment—especially when there is no indication of danger. Routine traffic stops and suspicions of drug use do not relate to domestic violence risk assessment, making them inappropriate contexts for initiating the LAP Screen protocol.