Two towns unite against domestic violence

For the past three years officers form the Vernon and Hardyston Township Police Departments have been working together on a Domestic Violence Regional Crisis Response Team which has been providing immediate assistance and emotional support to victims of domestic violence and abuse. The Crisis Response team is made up of 17 active members from all walks of life; some are survivors of domestic violence themselves. "These volunteers must go through 40 hours of training which gives them the tools and skills to be of most benefit to the victims of domestic violence that the will be dealing with," said Dianna Morrison, assistant director of DASI. The Police Departments call in the volunteers when an act of domestic violence occurs and they respond to the police station where they offer support, comfort and information to the victim. "Many people don't know that this is a resource that is available to them and they don't realize that they have choices," said Captain Alan Henderson of the Hardyston Township Police Department. "While some decline the service many victims of domestic violence feel more comfortable talking to a civilian and get information that they may not use immediately but could use down the line," he added. Members of the Crisis Response Team meet once a month for ongoing training and discussion. "It is the trust of this team to educate victims on agencies that can help them get out of a situation and realize that there is life after domestic violence and it could be a great life," said Kuzicki. All of the matters discussed between the victim and volunteers are strictly confidential with the exception of child abuse or discussions concerning suicide or homicide. "If a situation arises where you find yourself in a relationship where violence occurs you shouldn't hesitate to call the police department because there are people who are here to help you," added Kuzicki who recently received an award from DASI for his work with the Crisis Response Team.