Prosecutor’s Office rolls out technology to aid domestic violence victims

With the end of October closing out Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office recently rolled out new technology that allows victims of domestic violence to receive assistance right away.

Crime victims may now text the words “Victim Rights” or “Victim Advocate” or other requests to 586-250-4090.

“(Victims) will receive an automatic reply text with a link to an online form to request crime victims rights, an offer to immediately connect with a Crime Victim Advocate, and information on how to contact the Crime Victims Rights Unit on their own,” prosecutors said in a statement.

The service is for crime victims in cases authorized by the prosecuting attorney. In case of an emergency, victims are urged to still call 911.

According to the prosecutor’s office, domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used to gain or maintain power and control.

It is common for a charming, charismatic offender to choose a vulnerable partner. The offender slowly begins to verbally knock down their partner, and makes the victim feel bad about themselves.

The abuse may escalate to separating the victim from family and friends, taking over the finances, and monitoring their partner’s whereabouts. The abuse may further lead to physical abuse starting with a slap or shove by the offender.

The physical abuse may continue to grow and amplify with each occurrence as time progresses.

The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office encourages anyone experiencing domestic violence to contact their local police department and/or Turning Point.

Turning Point is a nonprofit organization that helps victims of domestic violence. Turning Point has a 24-hour hotline and an emergency shelter available by calling 586-463-6990. It also offers a community advocacy housing program, trauma advocacy and counseling services.

The Prosecutor’s Office provides the following assistance to crime victims:

• Provides information and help in filing for Michigan Crime Victims Compensation.

• Makes referrals to other community agencies for additional assistance

• Gives information on how the criminal justice system works, and case status

• Attends court at the victim’s request.

• Assists in completing the Victim Impact Statement for sentencing purposes

• Assists in providing information regarding restitution.

• The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office launched the new service with technology provided by Twilio at a cost of approximately 1 penny per text message. As of Sept. 30, more than 2,000 crime victims have requested victim rights.