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Increasing Domestic Violence Awareness

Berkeley, CA. – The Berkeley Police Department is working to increase awareness about domestic violence throughout the community. The Domestic Violence Prevention Unit (DVPU) reports that there has been an increase in the number of male victims of domestic violence in Berkeley.  BPD recognized the need to make resource information available for male victims as well as batterers, as men are often an overlooked category of domestic violence.

To address this, the DVPU has created two new information pamphlets.  One of them is specifically for batterers and the other is specifically designed for male victims. They provide information about legal responsibilities, give information about the cycle of violence and provide specific referral information. 

BPD will also be showcasing a portion of the Domestic Violence Memorial Project.  This project was put together by the office of Alameda County Supervisor Alice Lai-Bitker, in conjunction with Alameda County Senior District Attorney Nancy O’Malley. This memorial is made up of life-sized human silhouettes.  Each silhouette represents a woman, man or child killed by domestic violence and each has their personal story attached to them.  A portion of this memorial project will be on public display in the main lobby of the Tsukamoto Public Safety Building from October 17^th until October 23^rd.  Everyone is encouraged to visit this memorial. 

DVPU Detective Jennifer Louis says, “The goal of these efforts is to increase community awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence in Berkeley, and also provide resources for all parties that are affected by a violent household.”