Public Safety & Emergency Management provides support services for the victims of sensitive crimes to include hate crimes, sexual assault, relationship violence, workplace violence, and stalking. The department has a Law Enforcement Advocate (LEA) who works cooperatively with the Public Safety Detectives, Office of Student Life, Psychological Services, and Human Resources to ensure individuals are knowledgeable about their options for personal and workplace safety. Services include providing victim advocacy and support, individual and workplace safety-planning, transportation and accompaniment to local courts for pre-trial and restraining order hearings, resource information and referrals to external agencies servicing victims of crime, and explaining options and procedures for reporting.

Currently, we provide survivors who seek support with materials, such as a Personal Safety Alarm, lavender plant, self-care bingo, and more. 

It can be difficult for a survivor to make the choice to seek help, and it can be even more challenging to decide to report to the police, especially when there is often mistrust in the criminal justice system. This program will serve as a way to:

• Build authentic connections with survivors of sensitive crimes and interpersonal violence
• Empower survivors’ agency and resiliency by expanding their support system to include Public Safety
• Provide a more comforting experience while reporting or working through safety planning
• Provide holistic service beyond legal assistance in showing care and concern for both psychological safety and physical safety
• Reduce trauma and aid in the healing and recovery process
• Improve daily function and the ability to cope; promote reclamation of personal power
• Position Public  in the community as a trauma-informed agency    

If you have any questions or if you are a victim in need of support, please contact our Law Enforcement Advocate, Melissa DaRosa, at melissa_darosa@brown.edu.