Police Chief Issues Domestic Violence PSA During Pandemic

TOWSON, MD — As Marylanders hunker down at home amid the coronavirus pandemic, some law enforcement officials are worried about an increase in domestic violence.

On Friday, Baltimore County Police Chief Melissa Hyatt posted a PSA for residents who may need help getting out of abusive relationships and situations.

"With the governor's stay-at-home order, we realize that this may place some people in uncomfortable or unsafe space," Hyatt said. "We recognize that being confined to your home may make abusive relationships worse or may impact your ability to report abuse outside of the home. I assure you that we are committed to providing you with the resources and ability to be safe throughout this pandemic."

There's a number of ways county residents can get help during the pandemic, even if calling 9-1-1 isn't an option, Hyatt said. They can:

• Email iwatch@baltimorecountymd.gov
• Speak to a detective working with Baltimore County Police's Special Victims Unit: 410-887-2223
• Go to the Greater Baltimore Medical Center and ask for a "safe nurse" (a forensic nurse examiner who is trained to care for victims of sexual assault, rape, child abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking)
• Contact counseling and support services (i.e., Turn Around Inc., Children's Advocacy Center, and House of Ruth)

More information can be found here.

VIDEO: Baltimore County Police & Fire/YouTube