SI Fion Tey shares what it takes to manage victims of domestic violence and create safer homes.
By: Ryan Yeo Kee Hng
While some Police officers handle crimes in public spaces, others like Station Inspector (SI) Fion Tey work within homes, to apprehend offenders and offer support to victims.
As an Investigation Officer (IO) with the Family Violence Team at Ang Mo Kio Police Division, SI Fion’s work plays a crucial role in helping families navigate difficult situations. Her dedication to justice and compassion fuels her mission to empower the silenced, and protect the vulnerable.
Bring us through your career journey in the SPF.
I joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in 2012. After my training, I was posted to Sengkang Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) as a Ground Response Force (GRF) officer in 2013. In 2015, I was with the Criminal Investigation Department where I assisted in various major operations. In 2016, I returned to Sengkang NPC.
In 2020, I moved to Ang Mo Kio Police Division as an IO. When the Family Violence Team was formed in August 2022, I was selected to join as a Senior IO.
What motivated you to become an IO?
I’ve always been intrigued by solving puzzles and uncovering the truth. My passion for investigation and analysing evidence drives me, and my commitment to upholding the law remains unwavering. What excites me the most is the challenge of working through complex cases, knowing that every piece of evidence brings me closer to the truth.
What’s it like working in the Family Violence Team?
I chose to be part of the team’s pioneer cohort because of its strong focus on familial issues and managing victims of abuse. We play a crucial role in identifying signs of abuse, gathering evidence and collaborating with agencies like the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) to hold offenders accountable while ensuring victims have a safety plan in place. This role allows us to make an impact on the lives of those affected by domestic violence.
What’s a memorable case that you’ve worked on?
In 2023, a case worker from a Family Service Centre (FSC), along with the MSF’s Child Protective Service (CPS), alerted the Police about a woman with children whose husband had threatened to harm her with a knife and a chopper.
When we arrived, the victim was fearful that opening the door might result in an escalation of the situation since her husband was unaware that she was seeking support from the FSC. After careful assessment of the situation, the Police made the decision to approach the unit directly. The husband voluntarily opened the door when he realised that Police officers were outside.
Given the severity of the threat, he was placed under arrest. I worked closely with the CPS to discuss safety plans for the victim and her family. The FSC and the CPS also helped to relocate the victim and her family to a temporary shelter to ensure their safety. The husband was subsequently charged with offences of Breach of Personal Protection Order under Section 65(8) of the Women’s Charter 1961 and Criminal Intimidation under Section 506 of Penal Code 1871.
It was a relief to know that the family was safe. The collaborative support from the CPS was commendable.
What are the challenges you face as an IO in the Family Violence Team?
Victims may find it difficult to seek help for various reasons. They could be financially or emotionally dependent on their abusers or may wish to keep the family intact for the sake of their children. This creates a challenge for me when investigating into such cases. I will have to go beyond gathering evidence, to also taking the time to build rapport and establish trust with the victims. I also need to consider the victim’s needs and work with other social service agencies to ensure their safety is addressed.
Another challenge is maintaining emotional boundaries. While I empathise with the victims deeply, I must also stay impartial. To manage this, I often seek guidance from my supervisor, share my thoughts and findings to gain insights and maintain objectivity. To unwind, I enjoy activities like cafe-hopping or watching dramas.
What impact do you hope to make through your work as an IO?
My goal is to support victims and hold offenders accountable. The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing family reconciliation. It’s incredibly fulfilling when families work towards rebuilding relationships. These moments make the challenges of my job truly worthwhile!
What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing a career as an IO in the Family Violence Team?
Being an IO requires perseverance and a passion for investigative work, as the work can be challenging. It’s also vital to understand the background of the families. Lastly, having empathy is a crucial skill in this role.
Kickstart your SPF journey today and step up to a career that goes beyond! Visit our website to find out more.
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