This policy brief examines the economic burden of failing to intervene earlier in the trajectories of male perpetrators who were charged with domestic violence offenses in 2019. It focuses on the policing and justice system costs associated with addressing domestic violence, as well as an estimate of victim-related costs linked to the perpetrators in the sample. While this report captures only a fraction of the total financial and societal impact of male perpetration of domestic violence, it underscores the urgent need for early intervention strategies that address violent and coercive behaviours before they escalate. By reallocating resources toward preventing male violence, policymakers can reduce harm, enhance community safety, and improve long-term outcomes for individuals and society. This study provides a compelling case for proactive policy shifts, urging the expansion of existing services to include interventions that specifically address those who choose to use violence in their relationships. A prevention-first approach is not only a moral imperative but also a cost-effective strategy for mitigating the far-reaching consequences of male perpetrated domestic violence.
Wells et al. (Sun,) studied this question.