Page 52 - 2021 A Year in Review

Domestic Violence/Law Enforcement Advocate

The Domestic Violence Law Enforcement Advocate is tasked with providing enhanced

services for domestic violence and sexual assaults victims. The advocate position is

funded entirely by federal grants, and they refer victims of domestic violence and

family members for services. This is completed by written correspondence, telephone

contact, in-person support at the office or public setting, in-person support during

interviews with investigators, and court accompaniment. The Law Enforcement

Advocate continues to attempt awareness in the respected communities by taking part

in training and workshops on domestic violence, sexual assault, and most

importantly, being readily available to those victims in need of services.

The Law Enforcement Advocate participates in monthly meetings involving Cranston

United Against Violence and Abuse Task Force “CUAVA.” Other seminars, meetings,

and training during 2021 included the Elizabeth Buffum Chace Center staff meetings,

RI Domestic Violence Curriculum, and assisting with training at the RI Municipal

Police Academy. They also took part in the Law Enforcement Assessment Project to

evaluate the Law Enforcement Advocate Program throughout Rhode Island.

The Law Enforcement Advocate provides outreach services in the City of Cranston by

speaking regularly with other agencies to provide the best possible services to

domestic violence and sexual assault victims. The Special Victims Unit regularly

worked with the RI Attorney General’s Office representatives, Day One, Cranston

Community Action, Tri-Town Community Action, DCYF, and the Department of

Elderly Affairs.

The Law Enforcement Advocate stands committed to the goal of outreaching out to

community agencies in the hopes of preventing violence, abuse, and victimization of

all age groups.

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Cranston Police Department Year in Review 2021