As a result of a number of statewide, grassroots forums on domestic violence held by the Assembly Minority Conference involving victims, law enforcement and prevention advocates, Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,TCN-Deerpark) today joined colleagues for a press conference in Albany to discuss the findings and present a number of legislative solutions to the issue.

“I was honored to host one of our regional forums earlier this year in Port Jervis where I gained valuable insight into the lives and experiences of those affected by this terrible epidemic,” Brabenec said. “This is one of the tragedies of our society, but by bringing it to the forefront we can hopefully prevent abuse from happening and save more lives.”

Some specific recommendations include:

• Foundation of a state-funded training system to promote coordination between prosecutors, administrators and law enforcement with the goal of providing seamless assistance to victims and greater understanding of their personal situation.
• Arrange funds to help negate the cost of living expenses victims suffer while seeking help to distance themselves from their abuser.
• Creation of a new “Domestic Violence in the Presence of a Child” crime which would carry harsher penalties for the defendant.
• At court discretion, allow extension of order of protection for an additional two- year period after entering on the record the reasoning for such extension.
• Declare domestic violence a statewide public health crisis.