The primary duty of a peace officer investigating a family violence allegation is to protect any potential ______.

In the context of a peace officer investigating family violence allegations, the primary duty is to protect any potential victims. This reflects the understanding that individuals involved in family violence situations may be at risk of further harm, and safeguarding them is crucial to prevent additional violence and ensure their safety.

When addressing family violence, law enforcement is trained to prioritize the well-being of those who are at risk, which often includes victims who may not feel safe or may be in a vulnerable state. The officer's responsibility involves assessing the situation, providing necessary interventions, and connecting victims with services that can assist in their protection and support.

The other potential options—witnesses, suspects, and perpetrators—while relevant in the broader scope of a criminal investigation, do not hold the same priority in the context of immediate response to family violence allegations. The officer’s primary focus is on ensuring the safety of those directly affected by the violence, which underscores why protecting potential victims is paramount in these scenarios.