Domestic Violence

The Child Advocacy Center of Niagara was founded in 1995 as a partnership between local law enforcement agencies, the Niagara County District Attorney’s office and the Niagara County Department of Social Services. It was the third child advocacy center to be established in New York and one of the first nationally approved, hospital-affiliated centers in the Empire State.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INVESTEGATIVE UNIT

Unit Phone Number: (716) 286-4570

The Domestic Violence Investigative Unit (DVIU) was established in April, 2000. Located at the Public Safety Building at 520 Hyde Park Blvd., the DVIU consists of a Police Detective, Joseph Paul, and 2 victim advocates, Ericka Rowcroft, Tomasina Cook along with ADA Steve Folley to follow up cases of domestic violence. The DVIU serves to promote healthiness in our community by reducing the incidence of domestic violence, better coordinating the efforts of domestic violence service providers and by improving victim cooperation with the criminal justice system.

TIPS FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Getting help from an advocate

Advocates understand the criminal justice and Family Court systems and can make referrals for counseling and other services
Can assist you in making a safety plan.

Prepare a Safety Plan

Be aware of any weapons in the house
Know where you are going to go if you are in danger
Establish a secret hiding place, which is easily accessible in an emergency for an extra set of keys, some money, a list of important phone numbers & documents, extra set of clothes for you and the children.
Have a hiding place- a friend's or family house, the shelter & etc.
Make sure your children are aware of your safety plan

Talk: Tell someone about the abuse

Speak to a Domestic Violence Victim Advocate; an advocate can be reached at 286-4570 or 286-4573
Call a local shelter for information or support, Passage Program, at 285-6984.
Find a trusted, supportive individual and talk about the abuse.

National Domestic Violence Hotline-1800-799-SAFE

New York State Domestic Violence Hotline- 1800-942-6906