There were 73,749 domestic violence offenses in New Jersey in 2006 and research shows that domestic violence is underreported. Children are involved or present durring 33% of reported offenses. Alcohol and drugs are involved in 28% of domestic violence cases. Women are victims 77% of the time and domestic violence accounted for at least 42 of the murders in New Jersey in 2006.
Everyone has a role to play in ending domestic violence. To learn more about how you can help prevent domestic violence in your community or workplace, or to learn how to obtain help for a friend or family member, please call:
- SAFE in Hunterdon (888-988-4033)
- New Jersey Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (800-572-SAFE)
- Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office, Victim/Witness Unit (908-788-1403)
- Raritan Township Police Department (908-782-8889)
Crisis Response Team (CRT) volunteers provide support for victims by:
- Listening to the victim
- Explaining the dynamics of domestic violence
- Explaining legal options
- Identifying services that can assist the victim
- Discussing a plan to stay safe
Volunteers must first complete 40 hours of training, provided by the New Jersey Battered Women's Service, to become a CRT volunteer. Volunteers will be expected to attend subsequent quarterly team meetings and bi-annual training sessions. Team members are on-call during scheduled shifts to assist domestic violence victims at police headquarters. Volunteers need to have:
- Sensitivity to victims of domestic violence
- Ability to be non-judgmental
- Excellent communication and listening skills
- Ability to respect client confidentiality
- A clear criminal record
- A valid driver's license
BI-LINGUAL VOLUNTEERS ARE ESPECIALLY NEEDED, BUT AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE IS NOT REQUIRED
The Raritan Township Police Department believes that the CRT volunteers play a significant role in helping reduce the emotional trauma associated with domestic violence. Our police officers support the valuable work performed by the CRT volunteers. Please consider joining our efforts to make our community safer for all.
If you are interested in learning more about the services provided by the CRT or volunteering, please contact Janet Kerr, the Victim/Witness Unit Coordinator for the Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office at 908-788-1403.
