Domestic Violence Victims Amid COVID-19 Response
03/28/20
In the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re
all affected by the crisis. This is especially true for couples and
families who may be at risk of domestic violence and who are now in
close quarters amid Governor Gavin Newsom’s stay at home order.
In response, District Attorney Summer Stephan is reminding the
public of resources available to victims of domestic violence.
“We acknowledge the necessity of Governor Newsom’s order, but
want to be sure we provide a lifeline to those who may be at increased
risk of violence at the hands of an intimate partner,” DA Summer
Stephan said. “Additional stressors such as losing a job and kids at
home due to school closures can be triggers for domestic violence. We
want people who are seeing warning signs of abuse or who are being
abused to know that we stand ready to help them and that they
shouldn’t suffer in silence.”
A new domestic violence resource
website, set up by the District Attorney’s Office, provides
information in English and Spanish on free local
services, along with an anonymous quiz that determines one’s risk for
domestic violence. There is also a version of the website for offenders with
information on how to stop the cycle of abuse. The sites were
developed with a Department of Justice Domestic Violence Smart
Prosecution Grant. In addition, domestic violence hotlines, resource
centers and temporary restraining orders are still available during
the temporary court closure. Shelters funded by Cal OES are essential
services and are still operating.
There are also
services available for victims of sexual assault, human trafficking,
elder abuse, child abuse and fraud.
Red flags for abuse
include:
· Controlling and jealous behaviors
· Threats to harm you, your children or pet
· Destruction of property
· Put downs or telling you
that nothing you do is right
· Forced sex
· Withholding access to money or medical care
· Shaming or embarrassing you
· Saying if you get
coronavirus symptoms you will get kicked out
· Forcing you
to do drugs or alcohol
· Threatening to have you
deported
If you or someone you know is in danger,
call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
There is also an online chat
service available or you can text LOVEIS to 22522. Information is also
available on the DA’s
website.
Anyone in immediate danger should call 911.