DA’s Office Collecting Personal Care Items to Benefit Survivors of Domestic Violence
BALLSTON SPA, NY – Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen announced today that her office is calling attention to Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October. Heggen reminds residents that the office remains a resource for victims of domestic violence and will continue to prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law.
In recognition of the ongoing need for support of domestic violence victims and those who serve them, the District Attorney’s Office is sponsoring a collection of personal care items during the month of October. Suggested items include unopened bottles of shampoo and conditioner, body soap, lotion, sanitary products, hair accessories, and nail products. All items collected will be donated to Wellspring in Malta to help survivors of domestic violence in Saratoga County. Those wishing to contribute to the collection drive may bring items to the District Attorney’s Office at 25 West High Street, Building 4, Ballston Spa, NY until October 28, 2022.
“It’s important to all of us at the District Attorney’s Office to ensure abusers are held responsible for their criminal conduct and to help victims feel safer because of the prosecution of these cases. No longer are these cases simply referred to family court, but instead are prosecuted in criminal court, helping to effect real change,” Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen said. “The prevalence of domestic violence is such that everyone knows someone impacted by domestic violence. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please don’t hesitate to seek help.”
The Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office has been and continues to be a year round advocate for victims of domestic violence. Attorneys within the Domestic Violence Unit specialize in both prosecuting abusers and working with victims of domestic violence. In addition, advocates within DA Heggen’s office work with domestic violence victims through the Crime Victim Unit.
Justices preside over specialized Domestic Violence Courts in the City of Saratoga Springs, City of Mechanicville, and Town of Clifton Park. On specific days of the month a domestic violence prosecutor is present in the courtroom to prosecute these cases and conference with the judge. In addition, the prosecutor and victim specialists refer victims to support and advocacy agencies to further assist victims of domestic violence with counseling, shelter, and support. Victim specialists can be reached by calling the District Attorney’s office at 518-885-2263, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In Saratoga County, Wellspring is the domestic violence and sexual assault services resource for residents and operates a 24/7 hotline for victims: 518-584-8188.
Additionally, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, at the request of DA Heggen, proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Saratoga County.
For more information call the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office at 518- 885-2263.
Members of the District Attorney’s Office wear purple to bring awareness regarding Domestic Violence in our community.