Social media to become Maricopa County’s weapon against domestic violence
Sep 30, 2016, 3:20 PM
(AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)
(AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)
PHOENIX — Maricopa County is using a new weapon against domestic violence.
County attorney Bill Montgomery said the office will use social media to give people tips on stopping domestic violence, how to recognize it and where victims can go for help.
“Starting Monday you’ll see us actively communicating through social media to help bring additional light to this issue – and the various facets of it,” he said.
October is nationally recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the Valley, law enforcement agencies are getting the word out against it. They’re also publicizing victim resources.
Phoenix Police Sergeant Mercedes Fortune said that is a vital part of helping people fight domestic violence and its effects.
“You can [leave],” she said. “There’s a home we can provide you, cell phones we can give you, court services we can provide you.”
Phoenix’s Family Advocacy Center provides crime victims – including domestic violence victims – resources such as on-the-spot restraining orders, 911 phones, emergency shelter and support groups. They also provide help on navigating the criminal justice system and how domestic violence dynamics work.
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in three women – and one in four men – have experienced physical violence from an intimate partner.
In Arizona, domestic abuse crimes are prosecuted even if the victim says they don’t wish to press charges. Click here to learn more about Arizona’s domestic violence laws.
