Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed some new bills that are designed to protect victims of crimes. It’s an issue that came to light, especially during the pandemic.
At least since the pandemic, when remote or Zoom call proceedings came into vogue, the biggest concern was for victim or witness information getting into the wrong hands.
Police say they’re seeing significantly increased domestic violence calls. Yet, the legal system often makes it difficult for victims like Shar Berry, who works for the Detroit Parent Network.
“As a victim, it is often the calamity of the circumstances that make you feel as though going through the process isn’t worth it,” said Berry.
When domestic violence assistance organizations and the police cannot easily trade information, there’s also concern over witness or victim personal information finding its way into the wrong hands, says Yvette Brown from Haven of Oakland County.
“Today is a big win for survivors,” said Brown. “These new bills add some layer of protection that was so desperately needed and may potentially create an opportunity for others to feel confident in taking that first step in the healing process.”
Much of it became an issue during the pandemic. The bipartisan, four-bill package now allows for things like victim remote video testimony and the blurring of faces in those calls to protect identities.
Whitmer is happy with these four new bills.
“We know there is greater access when people are testifying remotely, but we also don’t want to inadvertently share information with an abuser or someone else who’s got bad intentions,” Whitmer said. “It’s hard enough to tell your story as a survivor, so that’s just two high-level things these bills do, but I’m encouraged by this and am hopeful we can continue working on ways to make Michigan safer.”
The bills do things like promote better collaboration between law enforcement and domestic violence assistance and sex assault support organizations and also update the criminal code to help healthcare workers often caught in the middle of these difficult situations.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline says there are key signs of abuse to watch out for, including:
- Showing extreme jealousy
- Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with others
- Insulting, demeaning, or shaming you, especially in front of others
- Controlling finances
- Threatening to harm children or pets
Information for the Michigan domestic violence hotline
Michigan’s Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week to provide one-on-one crisis support for domestic violence victims, survivors, support people and the professionals who serve them.
Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to maintain power and control in a relationship. Click here to learn more about the warning signs and what to look for. If you believe your loved one is being abused, you can learn more about how to help them by clicking here.
The hotline is completely free and provides support created by trained advocates.
- Call: 866-864-2338
- Text: 877-861-0222 (standard text messaging rates apply)
- Chat: MCEDSV.org/chat
- TTY: 517-898-5533
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you can also contact First Step Domestic & Sexual Violence Services. The 24-hour hotline is 734-722-6800 or go to their website by clicking here.
Read: Family of Detroit nurse who was abducted while leaving work files $200M lawsuit against DMC
Read: How to recognize signs of abusive behavior and where to find help for you, a loved one
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