Patricia Lykos, District Attorney

Harris County, Texas

October 5, 2009

Public Information Office:

Donna Hawkins

George Flynn

713-755-3320

Domestic Violence Cases Surge: DA and HPD Expedite Process for Victims

Houston, Tx – The Harris County District Attorney’s Family Criminal Law Division and Houston Police Department have enhanced their coordination to expedite the filing of domestic violence charges, which are now surging toward record levels, District Attorney Patricia Lykos announced Monday.

The District Attorney said an experienced HPD investigator now works with the DA’s domestic violence division on-site, to assist victims in filing charges when they come to the county Criminal Justice Center to seek protective orders. That streamlines the process by removing the need for victims to make a separate trip to a police station for charges.

“Any time you remove a barrier to a domestic violence victim seeking help, you decrease their fears of the criminal justice system,” Lykos said. “We can respond to their crisis immediately, and they can begin to feel safe again.”

Lykos commended HPD Chief Harold Hurtt for the police participation in the program. It is among several initiatives being recognized during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October.

“Domestic violence has become a significant problem in Harris County, and we are doing more than ever before to tackle the problem and help victims,” Lykos said. “We are also taking more creative approaches to provide crisis services to victims.”

Jane Waters, Chief of the DA’s Family Criminal Law Division, reported that 4,900 family violence charges were filed as of Oct. 1. That pace of filings is 18 percent above last year, and 40 percent more than in 2007. Significant increases also have been recorded in the number of protective order applications and cases involving violations of protective orders.

Waters said the increase may be attributed in part to new initiatives and assistance programs – by the District Attorney’s Office and law enforcement – to help make the process more sensitive to victims’ needs.

“We are very grateful to Chief Hurtt for providing support and assistance in our endeavor to better serve victims of domestic violence. We have noticed that the comfort level of victims reporting crimes has increased, leading to additional charges and enhanced prosecutions,” Waters explained. “It takes courage to get law enforcement involved for the first time. If that experience is a satisfactory one, then the victim will call again and encourage friends in similar situations to get help. Enhanced reporting of crimes can save lives.” (end)

Last Updated: 10/5/2009