Three strikes and spouse beaters are out

Monday, Jan. 5, 1998 | 4:27 a.m.

Under changes to Nevada's domestic violence laws that took effect Jan. 1, a third conviction for domestic battery will mean a felony conviction and a minimum of one year in jail.

"Before, you could get many domestic violence violations on your record without any bite to it. Now it is prison time," said Lisa Lee, executive director of Advocates to End Domestic Violence.

"I think Nevada has been very progressive in building in some consequences," Lee said. "However, I do think it will be challenged in the future."

Among other changes to the domestic violence statutes are a certification process for domestic violence counselors, a prohibition on prosecutors plea-bargaining away domestic battery charges, a ban on denying health insurance claims for domestic violence injuries and more protections for victims in punishment, parole and probation decisions.

"Hopefully this will motivate people to get a handle on their anger," Lee said. "For some of these people, if there is not a consequence there is no reason not to do it."

Lee said the stricter punishments may deter victims from reporting crimes, but police called to a domestic battery can make an arrest without the consent of the victim.

"In this state, if the police show up and see evidence of domestic violence on either person, it is mandatory that they arrest," Lee said. "They don't need the victim's testimony."