Law Enforcement Advocate

The Law Enforcement Advocacy Program serves as a vital liaison between victims of domestic violence and local police departments in the cities and towns of Barrington, Bristol, Burrillville, Central Falls, Cumberland, East Providence, Pawtucket, Providence, Warren, and Woonsocket. Operated by the Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center (BVAC), this program ensures that victims receive timely, trauma-informed support while promoting collaboration and education among law enforcement and community partners.

Our Core Services:

• Assist Police Officers: Advocates work alongside police officers to provide accurate and supportive information in cases involving domestic violence, ensuring the needs and rights of victims are fully considered throughout the investigative process.
• Victim Support: Advocates respond to crime scenes, police departments, and hospitals to meet with victims, offering immediate crisis intervention, safety planning, and coordinated follow-up care.
• Referral Services: The program helps victims access restraining orders and links them to essential services such as legal advocacy, counseling, emergency shelter, and other community-based resources.
• Training and Education: Advocates support the ongoing education of law enforcement personnel and community stakeholders by assisting in trainings that focus on domestic violence dynamics, victim rights, and trauma-informed care.
• Community Representation: Program staff represent BVAC at various community events, roundtable discussions, and police in-service trainings, strengthening community awareness and collaboration.
• Accompaniment Services: Advocates provide emotional support by accompanying victims to hospitals, court proceedings, and other critical appointments.
• Professional Development: Advocates participate in relevant conferences and trainings to remain up-to-date on best practices and evolving trends in victim advocacy and law enforcement collaboration.

Through this multi-faceted approach, the Law Enforcement Advocacy Program enhances the response to domestic violence across participating municipalities and reinforces the safety, dignity, and empowerment of survivors.