December 18, 2002

Contact: Lynn Kimbrough,

720-913-9025

HIGH TECH HELP FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FIGHT

Batterers beware!  Things are getting tougher for domestic violence suspects in Denver as cops and prosecutors use advanced technology for better investigation and enforcement.

Denver District Attorney Bill Ritter, Jr. announced today that the Denver DA’s Office, the Denver City Attorney’s Office and the Denver Police Department have been awarded a grant worth more than $500,000 to strengthen and improve Denver’s response to domestic violence. 

The grant will expand a pilot program that is currently in place in two Denver police districts in which technology and new response strategies are being used to help domestic violence victims. 

Denver police began using digital photography to document the crime, injuries, damage and other evidence in domestic violence cases earlier this year in Districts 1 and 4.  Statements made by victims and witnesses have been recorded at the scene.  This evidence has strengthened the prosecution of cases and often resulted in a guilty plea long before a trial date was set.  Stronger evidence also often means fewer victims have to come to court to testify against their batterer, a frightening and intimidating prospect for most.  Other technology aids will include the use of Palm Pilots and computer software that allows faster and more accurate tracking of domestic violence cases. 

The two-year U.S. Department of Justice grant will enable the DA’s Office, the Denver Police Department, the Denver City Attorney’s Office, Project Safeguard and the Denver Domestic Violence Task Force to weave a safety net for victims that integrates technology, training, resources and advocacy.

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