Press Release

Elk Grove – Today, Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-7) announced a U.S. Department of Justice grant of $179,674 for the Elk Grove Police Department and WEAVE Sacramento to combat domestic violence. This investment will be used continue a program that places advocates within the police department to work specifically with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and elder abuse. Dr. Bera was joined by Elk Grove Chief of Police Robert Lehner and WEAVE CEO Beth Hassett, as well as members of the Elk Grove Police Department and WEAVE staff.

“As a doctor who has cared for victims of sexual violence and the father of a teenage daughter, I know the programs this grant makes possible are critical to keeping our community safe. No one should ever have to live in fear of enduring domestic abuse. The support provided by our police officers and WEAVE is an invaluable asset that has resulted in more abusers being apprehended and punished. I’m proud to have played a part in keeping this effective program going,” said Congressman Bera.

“For a city such as ours – where the majority of our violent crime is domestic violence related – a partnership with a caring and effective advocacy group is vitally important. We learned how important when this grant was when it was first awarded several years ago. We are grateful for this grant that funds our onsite victim advocate from WEAVE and know it will continue to contribute positively to the services we are able to provide our victims,” said Elk Grove Chief of Police Robert Lehner.

"The continued funding of the Elk Grove Police Department Domestic Violence Response Team demonstrates the value of partnership between domestic violence service providers and law enforcement. When Advocates can work side by side with officers, survivors are safer, stronger, and better supported. The model has allowed WEAVE to provided consistent and high quality advocacy while allowing officers and detectives to focus on their roles as investigators. We are proud to continue this lifesaving program with the Elk Grove Police Department,” said WEAVE CEO Beth Hassett.

This grant is a renewal of funding for the Domestic Violence Response Team Program, which was reestablished in 2013 between WEAVE and the Elk Grove Police Department. Through federal investment, WEAVE is able to have embedded advocates in EGPD Investigations Department who ensure victims of domestic violence, dating, sexual assault, stalking, and elder abuse have access to a supportive point of contact within the department.

WEAVE advocates can accompany victims to court hearings, assist in accessing legal assistance with Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, and more. Advocates ensure that victims receive appropriate support from a trained professional while allowing police officers to focus on their investigative role. The program has helped to increase victim willingness to participate in investigation and prosecution, resulting in more abusers being held accountable and increasing public safety.

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