El Paso CA offers help to victims to protect themselves from abusers

The El Paso County District Attorney’s Office ensures that victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking can obtain free protective orders, providing a “legal shield of safety from their abusers,” county officials said.

“Our goal: to give victims options to help them stay safe.” El Paso County District Attorney Christina Sanchez said in a statement. “Protective orders can help victims protect themselves and their families. Apply online from your own safe place or at our offices and we will work to evaluate your case and obtain a protective order if you qualify.”

Victims can apply for a protective order using a “simple, confidential online process” at epcounty.com/ca/protectiveorders.htmofficials said. The website application works on a desktop computer and a smart phone.

rubbish is the new county prosecutorwhich was elected in the Democratic primary in March with over 69% of the votes. She faced no Republican challenger in the November general election. She was set to take over the office in January, but the El Paso Commissioners Court voted to allow Sanchez to begin her work earlier after the retirement of former District Attorney Jo Anne Bernal.

People who qualify for protective orders include victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, or who face harassment or threats, according to the El Paso District Attorney’s website. A protective order can also be obtained to protect a child if an abuser goes near their school or daycare, or an abuser goes near the victim’s residence or workplace.

To apply for a protection order, you must have a copy of an official photo ID with the victim’s full name, a current and complete address where the abuser lives, and include a description of the incidents of violence, sexual assault, indecent assault, stalking. , harassment or human trafficking that occurred, the county attorney’s website shows.

The county attorney’s office will then review the application and file the application with the court.

The district attorney’s office tries to make sure all victims are aware of the services the office offers and the resources they can get to keep them safe. Those resources include emergency shelters, financial assistance and educational support to help victims rebuild their lives, officials said.

“Too many people in our community face domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking,” county attorney’s office officials said in a news release. “Victims may not be aware of the safety options available. order, providing a legal shield of safety against their aggressors.”

Domestic violence involves the continued use of power and control, including abusers using fear, emotional manipulation and financial dependence to make it difficult for victims to leave, Sanchez said.

“We understand that the decision to leave an abusive relationship can be challenging,” Sanchez said. “It is not a decision that victims have to face alone. In addition to protective orders, we connect and work with others, including the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence, law enforcement and the district attorney’s office to help people find safety and regain control of their lives.”

Victims seeking more information can call the office at 915-273-3238 or go to any of the three district attorneys offices located in El Paso. The locations are:

El Paso County District Attorney’s Office Downtown Office, 320 S. Campbell Street
El Paso County District Attorney’s Office Ysleta Annex, 9521 Socorro Road
El Paso County District Attorney’s Office Northwest Annex, 435 E. Vinton Road

Victims who need immediate help are urged to call 911. Victims seeking shelter can also contact the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence at 915-593-7300 to request an emergency shelter, officials said.

The Center Against Sexual and Family Violence “provides safe and confidential housing for individuals and families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault, providing a safe environment and supportive services to help victims begin their journey to safety and recovery,” officials said counties.

Aaron Martinez can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @AMartinezEPT.