Pasco Remembers its Domestic Violence Victims

Four Pasco County residents have died this past year due to domestic violence.

That, according to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, is four too many.

They and many others like them are the reason why the sheriff’s office is teaming up with Salvation Army of Pasco County to hold a candlelight vigil Thursday night. The observance is part of the county’s recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which continues through October.

"This is a remembrance for all the victims of domestic violence and to remind the community that domestic violence still plagues us,” said Sheriff Chris Nocco. “Unfortunately, domestic violence is a learned behavior taught through generations and we must do everything possible to break this cycle."  

The candlelight vigil begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, outside the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office’s headquarters at 8700 Citizen Dr. in New Port Richey. In addition to a candle lighting ceremony, the event will include several guest speakers.

A survivor and a father who lost a daughter to domestic violence are both expected to address those who gather, said Tim Couet, community outreach coordinator for the sheriff’s office. Other appearances are planned, as well.

“We are trying to take the time to remember the victims that have been lost this year because of domestic violence,” said Kim Clipper, a victims’ advocate and administrative assistant for the Salvation Army of Pasco County’s domestic violence program. “We’re hoping to get a big turnout.”

The Salvation Army provides programs and services for domestic violence victims throughout the county, Clipper said. For more information, visit the organization’s website. Domestic violence victims can call the 24-hour hotline number at 727-856-5797 for assistance.

Sunrise of Pasco also provides assistance to the victims of domestic violence. This nonprofit organization serves primarily the east side of the county. Both agencies do serve Central Pasco. For more information about Sunrise, visit SunrisePasco.org.

The candlelight vigil is open to anyone who wants to attend.

Editor's note: This article was updated at 10:10 a.m. Oct. 13 to include information about Sunrise of Pasco.