Domestic violence is the most committed, but least reported crime in our society. It is estimated that only fifty percent (50%) of the offenses are reported and, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniform Crime Reports, a woman is battered every fifteen (15) seconds. Numerous studies have shown that domestic violence is affecting our community in many other ways as indicated by the following statistics:

• Fifty percent (50%) of homeless women are fleeing an abusive relationship.
• Children of domestic violence are four (4) times more likely to be arrested and six (6) times more likely to commit suicide.
• Sixty-three percent (63%) of children in jail for murder are there for killing an abusive parent.
• Eight-five percent (85%) of batterers learned domestic violence behavior at home as the result of growing up in a violent household.
• Eighty percent (80%) of men who batter their wives also batter their children either physically or sexually.

Domestic violence is not only a crime against a person, it is a crime against a family and against our community.

The Crisis Intervention Advocate shall be contacted to respond to the scene of domestic violence situations in accordance with the guidelines that have been set forth in collaboration with the Franklin Police Department. The Crisis Intervention Advocate will provide assistance to the investigating officers and information and support to the victim(s) of domestic violence. The Advocates will function as liaisons between the victim(s) and the Franklin Police Department.

A review of Crisis Intervention Teams actions both statewide and nationwide indicates that victims take definitive action against their abusers more often when a Crisis Intervention Advocate member provides a neutral perspective on the situation. This can work to the advantage of law enforcement in gaining cooperation when working with a victim who is afraid.

The Crisis Intervention Advocate will provide services to all domestic violence victims within the Franklin Police Department jurisdiction at no cost. BRIDGES of Williamson County views this has a positive increase in services to the victims and an innovative service for the residents of Franklin.

The ADT AWARE® Program For The Victims Of Domestic Violence

Through the ADT AWARE® program, ADT Security Services, Inc. donates and installs electronic security systems which include hold-up alarm pendants and 24-hour a day monitoring in the homes of victims at the highest level of risk for lethal attack in domestic violence situations.

Victims are selected to participate in the program through a very coordinated process between local law enforcement, prosecutor's offices and battered women's shelters. After these groups have set criteria, and identified people in need of the pendants, they notify ADT that an installation is to be done.

Victims in need of the program should contact BRIDGES of Williamson County at (615) 599-5777 or the Franklin Police Department at (615) 794-2513.