Maple Grove Police Welcome In-House Domestic Violence Advocate
The city of Maple Grove is putting a high priority on helping victims of domestic violence.
Last year officers responded to 497 domestic related service calls in the city.
Maple Grove police now have a dedicated domestic abuse advocate with an office inside the department to offer support to residents and officers.
“She helps act as a liaison between not only our officers, investigators and the victims, but the court system as well,” said Sergeant Matt Brost, Maple Grove Police Department.
The advocate is employed through Cornerstone, a violence prevention organization that provides resources and support to victims of domestic abuse.
Services include help setting up temporary housing and daycare, as well as walking victims through an order for protection and what to expect in court.
Most importantly, the advocate gives victims a sense of security.
“She’s able to make arrangements for them to come in and make them feel more comfortable and safe so that they can tell their stories,” explained Sgt. Brost. “Then they can protect themselves or their family and hold their offender accountable.”
The advocate also makes herself available to officers, something Sgt. Brost says has been invaluable to the department.
“She visits roll calls and is open to questions and educating our officers,” said Sgt. Brost. “Like maybe try this, or think about it from someone who’s hesitant to come in and share their story.”
Compassion is Key
According to Sgt. Brost, oftentimes it’s the fear of the abuser that keeps victims from coming forward with the truth.
“To have that compassion to really sit down and listen to their story,” said Sgt. Brost. “Some of these events are very emotionally charged, and to have an officer go in and really make the victim feel comfortable is part of getting them to share their story.”
Helping victims of domestic violence and pushing for stricter laws appears to be a top priority for the department.
Maple Grove Police Chief Eric Werner and Detective Katie Damm recently spoke in support of a bill authored by Rep. Kristin Bahner (DFL-Maple Grove) that would expand the list of domestic violence-related offenses to include kidnapping, false imprisonment, and others.
Maple Grove Police Officer Kate Damm testified about a loophole.
Learn more about Maple Grove Police Department’s domestic violence resources.
To report an instance of domestic violence, contact the Maple Grove Police Department at 763-494-6100.
