News

The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 1.3 million women and 835,000 men are victims of physical violence by a partner every year, but victims in Albuquerque don’t have to feel like they’re alone. The Bernalillo County District Attorney Office’s Victim Resource Center provides a safe space for victims to file an order of protection, initiate a case, and find various resources.

October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, was created to recognize the victims of domestic violence and the resources both locally and nationally available to empower them and end domestic violence. Created in 2018, the DA’s Victim Resource Center houses 2 confidential kiosks where victims can begin the process of filing an order of protection. 

“[The Center] is really important because it gives the victim a safe and quiet place where they are away from the public and where they can get away from the offender and safely meet with the prosecutor and obtain an order of protection,” Leslie Ulibarri, Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate said.  

The Center is also connected with organizations such as the Domestic Violence Resource Center where advocates are available to help them with the civil aspects of domestic violence claims. Although victims can’t currently physically access the Center due to COVID-19 precautions, they can still get connected with resources to assist them. 

“People can get resources immediately,” Ulibarri said. 

The Center also has an area for victims to trials and hearings and they also provide “essentials” bags to victims of domestic violence that include gender non-specific items such as toiletries and basic clothing.

Our Center is a safe haven where domestic violence victims can get the help they need privately, Ulibarri said. 

If you or anyone is experiencing domestic violence, visit our service guide: https://berncoda.com/service-guide/