Domestic Violence Survivor Thanks ACS Responders
Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) Responders are equipped to handle various crises in a trauma-informed and sensitive manner and work to establish a safe and supportive environment. In a recent incident, that mission was well-illustrated when ACS Responders partnered with the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) to assist a survivor of domestic violence.
ACS Responders were called by APD and directed to Kaseman Hospital to assist a woman recently discharged from the emergency room due to a domestic violence incident (note: names of ACS clients are confidential not revealed to the public).
After an interview shedding light on the sensitivity of the situation, they accompanied the individual home. The responders stayed with her, providing a comforting presence and support while she gathered her belongings. This joint effort epitomized a seamless partnership between ACS and APD, showcasing compassion and empathy throughout.
In the following days, a heartfelt note from the survivor addressed to the ACS Responders who assisted her conveyed deep gratitude for the support provided:
"Your professionalism, kindness, and protection were invaluable when I had no one to turn to. Thank you for helping me leave a mentally abusive relationship and helping me safely get some personal things out of the house.
Your care was evident from the minute you came to my aid and throughout our time together. I cannot tell you how touched I was when I got in my car to leave my home and found my stuffed Snoopy seat belted together in the passenger seat, to ride shotgun with me into my new-found freedom. It truly was the sweetest thing anyone has done for me. It gave me hope as I pulled away from my home... when I hugged [ACS Responders] goodbye.”
“This is a great example of what ACS is all about,” said ACS Director Mariela Ruiz-Angel. “During moments of vulnerability, ACS and the Albuquerque Police Department seamlessly collaborate with a shared commitment to providing compassionate and empathetic support. Together, we strive to ensure that survivors of domestic violence feel heard, protected, and supported on their journey towards safety and healing.
Domestic violence tends to increase during the holiday season. The City encourages the community to be on the look-out for warning signs of abuse. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-799-7233. In a domestic violence emergency, call 911. Additional resources are available on our Domestic Violence Help webpage.