OPP community meeting focus on domestic violence in PEC

A focus on the continuing problem of domestic violence in the community highlighted community meetings hosted by Prince Edward OPP.

The detachment met with community partners to discuss response to the crimes as part of the Prince Edward County Community and Safety Well-Being Plan.

OPP met with members from the Prince Edward County Alternatives for Women, Victim Services of Hastings, Prince Edward, Lennox and Addington (VS HPELA) and the Canadian Mental Health Association’s IMPACT team.

So far this year the OPP have responded to 233 domestic related occurrences.

“The statistics continue to show that domestic violence is a serious and prevalent issue in Prince Edward County,” said Julie Watson, Executive Director of Alternatives for Women. “In conjunction with other community agencies, we will work to eradicate gender-based violence through public education and awareness and continue to support the victims of domestic violence through our services and programs. We urge anyone who needs assistance to call our 24 hour crisis line, 613-476-2787.”

Leah Morgan, Executive Director of VS HPELA said Victim Services HPELA provides on scene and follow up support for victims of domestic violence, and referrals to other supportive services, such as Alternatives for Women.

“Through the Victim Quick Response Program victims can access financial aid for safety enhancements such as cell phones and home security equipment. Our agency also distributes Mobile Tracking Systems (MTS), which provides high risk victims with a GPS panic button, to be used in the event they cannot access 911. Our aim is to work collaboratively with our community partners to ensure victims of domestic violence have all their safety concerns addressed and feel fully supported”.”

PEC Community Safety Constable Aaron Miller notes the OPP reminds the community to report cases of domestic violence and that there is help out there for victims.