July 20, 2015
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Announces Funding
to Combat Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Harrisburg, PA. — The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD)
announced the availability of competitive funding aimed at combating domestic
violence, sexual assault, stalking and dating violence. Up to $11.2 million in funds will be available
to Pennsylvania communities through the federal STOP Violence Against Women
Formula Grant Program (STOP).
STOP funds are intended
to help communities strengthen their response to domestic violence, sexual
assault, stalking and dating violence by improving the level of collaboration
between law enforcement, prosecution and victim services. These funds have had far-reaching effects:
STOP grants have enabled local police to learn specialized investigative techniques critical to preserving evidence in sexual assault
cases; counties have used STOP funding to support prosecutors who are dedicated
to handling domestic violence cases as they move through the court system; and
STOP funding has also allowed local victim service agencies to provide life
saving services to victims and their children, especially victims who are
underserved because of their age, disability or cultural/ethnic
background.
“Domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and
dating violence crimes involve dynamics of power and control and often involve violence
or the threat of violence. These factors make it challenging for victims to
seek help or cooperate with the justice system,” said Chairman Josh Shapiro. “STOP funding gives Pennsylvania communities the
tools to effectively investigate and prosecute these cases while making sure
that the safety and service needs of victims are met.”
PCCD follows a rigorous process in awarding competitive grants.
For more information on how grants are awarded, please visit here.
MEDIA CONTACT: Matthew Leonard,
717.265.8539
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