MERIDIAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
MEDIA RELEASE: Thursday, October 22, 2020
CONTACT: Public Safety PIO, Stephany Galbreaith, [email protected]
Meridian Police Unveiled Domestic Violence Awareness Patrol Vehicle
MERIDIAN - One of Meridian Police Department’s vehicles is now serving a higher purpose in addition to patrolling. Meridian Police Department and community partners gathered on October 22, also known as “Purple Thursday” to unveil a new vehicle that is now a beacon of hope for people in abusive relationships that may be unsure of where to turn.
The domestic violence awareness patrol car is wrapped in a unique design that visually depicts a purple ribbon running through the new purple ‘POLICE’ logo. The phrase ‘Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence’ is printed as a reminder that local law enforcement and community partners are here to support those in need.
The Meridian Police Department was joined at the unveiling by local community partners from the Women’s Children Alliance (WCA), Faces of Hope Foundation (FACES), and Ada County and Boise City Prosecutor’s Offices. These organizations regularly work together to help victims of domestic abuse.
“This purple ribbon car represents our strong relationship with our law enforcement partners and is a testament to our collaborative commitment to victims,” said Faces of Hope Executive Director Paige Dinger. “More importantly it provides the opportunity to make the connection about where individuals can go to get help—from law enforcement to organizations like Faces of Hope that provide critical services like emergency housing, forensic exams, legal advocacy, crisis counseling, medical care, and other programs to help break the cycle of domestic violence."
In 2019, there were 311 Domestic Violence cases in Meridian. So far, in 2020 there have been 209.
“The impact domestic violence has on our community is immeasurable and we are dedicated to preventing domestic violence, respond to the needs of the victims and hold offenders accountable,” said Meridian Police Chief Lavey. “Through awareness, we hope to encourage citizens to report abuse and increase the understanding that there is help available and no one has to live in fear.”
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and a good time to set the expectation for our community and let victims know there are resources available to help.
To report domestic violence, Meridian area residents can contact the Meridian Police Department by calling 911 or 208-377-6790. If you or someone you know needs help, you can also call the WCA 24-hour domestic violence hotline at (208) 343-7025.
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The Meridian Police Department’s mission is to provide the highest quality service in partnership with the community to preserve and protect life and property through education, prevention and enforcement. The department has 128 police officers and 40 civilian staff dedicated to making Meridian a great place to live, work and raise a family.
