CRISIS RESPONSE TEAMS

            As part of a progressive program to respond to the needs of victims of domestic violence, the Mendham Township and Mendham Borough Police Departments in conjunction with the Jersey Battered Women’s Service, has established a domestic violence “Crisis Response Teams” within the two Mendhams.

            The team is composed of specially trained citizen volunteers who provide support and assistance to victims of domestic violence, and their families, immediately following an act of domestic violence.

            The services provided by the Crisis Response Team Volunteer are offered to victims of domestic violence by the police officers who respond to a call for assistance.  Crisis Response Team volunteers are available to assist victims of domestic violence 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Their services are individual, personal and confidential.

SERVICES PROVIDED BY CRT VOLUNTEERS

Crisis Response Team members assist victims of domestic violence by:

Explaining Domestic Violence Laws and their components

Identifying available social services to assist victims of Domestic Violence.

Referral to the services offered by the Jersey Battered Woman’s Service, Inc.

Assistance in seeking access to protective shelter, when indicated.

Explaining the dynamics of domestic violence.

Proving Emotional Support to victims immediately following an act of violence.

Assistance in applying for a Temporary Restraining Order against your attacker / abuser.

Assisting the victim in the Preparation of a safety plan for the future.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

You are not alone:

There were over 2,500 reported cases of Domestic Violence in Morris County last year.

Nearly 5,000 people called the Jersey Battered Woman’s service Hotline last year.

The Abuse is Not Your Fault:

            The abuser is solely responsible for the violence and abuse.

Abuse is a crime:

Domestic violence is not only inappropriate, it’s illegal.  The NJ Prevention of Domestic Violence Act requires the police and courts to protect the victim.  Victims can file a criminal charge against the abuser and / or file for a restraining order.

Children are Affected:

Children who grow up in violent homes may suffer physical or emotional injury.  They may feel angry, confused, frightened and alone.  Male children are at risk for becoming abusive adults.

Help is available:

Through the Mendham Township / Mendham Borough CRT Program, JBWS and through the Morris County Office of Victim / Witness Advocacy.

The Jersey Battered Woman’s Service, Inc.

JBWS is a private non-profit, tax exempt agency dedicated to Helping people affected by domestic violence.  They provide the following services:

• HOTLINE:  Safe temporary housing
• Community Outreach
• ACT:  Counseling for Abusers
• Community Education

For more information on the Jersey Battered Women's Service, Inc. please click here.

Morris County Victim / Witness Assistance Unit

The Morris County Victim / Witness Assistance Unit provides the following services:

• Information about your role in the Criminal Justice System.
• Information on the status and disposition of your case.
• Assistance in applying for compensation from the Victims of Crimes Compensation Board.
• Other Services:  973-285-6200