October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a period dedicated to discussing measures that can guide those affected towards understanding the situation and finding avenues to escape harmful circumstances.

Data from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reveals that over 10 million adults in the United States face domestic violence each year. Closer to home, Scottsdale’s Victim Services extended assistance to approximately 1,200 domestic violence victims in the fiscal year spanning July 2021 to June 2022. Their support encompasses facilitating victims in obtaining orders of protection or injunctions against harassment, directing them to relevant support services, aiding in applications for the Address Confidentiality Program, accompanying them to court, clarifying aspects of the criminal justice process, and championing their rights.

Sergeant Marcus Dunton, with a tenure of 17 years at Scottsdale PD, initiated his journey as a Police Aide and presently holds the position of Supervisor for the Domestic Violence Unit.

Kasia Bouise-Oropeza and Ellen Larson are integral members of the Victim Advocate Department of Victim Services. They are committed to assisting every domestic violence victim and guiding them through the necessary procedures.