LPD explains protections for domestic violence victims after recent abductions
Lincoln, Neb. (KLKN) — Questions are being raised after two alleged abductions in Lincoln within just days of each other, including what protections are in place for victims of domestic violence.
Inside the Lincoln Police Department (LPD), the Victim Assistance Unit works with people experiencing domestic violence and other crimes.
Beth McQueen, who manages the unit, said they have dealt with a number of serious domestic violence cases in recent years.
“In the last couple years, we’ve had a lot of particularly domestic violence cases that have been fairly significant, with the homicides and the cases that you mentioned as well, but a number of cases that have been very concerning,” McQueen said. “I think that this is, among all of the other types of crimes that we serve, this is one of them that’s been at the forefront for the past couple years now.”
The two recent abduction investigations are among those cases, raising questions about what protections are in place when someone is at risk.
McQueen said pamphlets and other information available through the Victim Assistance Unit can help walk victims through some of their options.
That can include a no-contact order after an arrest, or a victim can ask for a protection order.
McQueen said advocates work with each person to figure out what makes sense for their individual situation. That can include looking at safe places to stay and developing a safety plan.
But even with protections in place, McQueen said they do not guarantee a victim’s physical safety.
“They could ask for a protection order. None of those are automatic physical protections for that person,” McQueen said. “We still have to do some safety planning with them.”
LPD’s Victim Assistance Unit recently returned to its previous staffing level with four advocates.
McQueen encouraged anyone who is worried about their own safety or the safety of someone they know to seek support and help.
Resources:
- LPD Victim Assistance Unit: https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/Police/Departments/Victim-Assistance
- Voices of Hope: https://www.voicesofhopelincoln.org/
- Friendship Home: https://friendshiphome.org/
- Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence: https://nebraskacoalition.org/
