Posted: Saturday, October 25, 2025. 1:08 pm CST.
By Aaron Humes: In a significant move to tackle the ongoing issue of domestic violence, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Police Department have announced plans for a new one-stop office dedicated to supporting victims. The initiative comes in the wake of alarming statistics, with more than 1,700 domestic violence cases reported to the police this year as of September. However, experts caution that this figure is just the tip of the iceberg, as many victims remain silent due to fear of retaliation or the stigma associated with speaking out.
Staff Officer Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith emphasized the urgency of addressing domestic violence, acknowledging that many victims have hesitated to come forward. “Apparently, in the past, [people] were of the view that they would not place as much importance on situations that they’ve had. We’ve received several persons who have come into the station to make reports for incidents that date back one month, two months, three months, and all are being dealt with. It is our hope that when we deal with these statements and take actions, that urgency that is now being felt by citizens in the country [reverberates] into the court system and meaningful actions are [taken].”
The proposed shelter aims to provide a comprehensive support system all in one location. It will house various services, including human services, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and medical assistance, alongside law enforcement personnel. This centralized approach is designed to streamline access for survivors, making it easier for them to seek help following a crisis.
“The location of that building has already been identified, and what has delayed the process is the drafting of the structure of the building in such a way that it achieves what is sought to be achieved by it,” ASP Smith explained, adding that the idea came from a visit to a similar office in Jamaica.
The Police Department encourages victims and those who know them to report incidents of domestic violence. “We can only act within the parameters of the law and when reports are made,” Smith stated, reiterating the importance of community support in addressing this pressing issue.
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New office for domestic violence victims and survivors to be opened amid wave of femicide
The post New office for domestic violence victims and survivors to be opened amid wave of femicide appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Saturday, October 25, 2025. 1:08 pm CST. By Aaron Humes: In a significant move to tackle the ongoing issue of domestic violence, the Ministry of
The post New office for domestic violence victims and survivors to be opened amid wave of femicide appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
