Remote Access Program for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Victims Expands to Mercer, McDowell Counties

PRINCETON and WELCH, W.Va. — Victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Mercer and McDowell counties will now have the option to seek court protection without appearing in person, thanks to the expansion of the Remote Victim Outreach Program.
Supported by the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, the program allows petitioners to file protective orders and participate in hearings remotely from local Stop Abusive Family Environments, Inc. (SAFE, Inc.) crisis centers. The initiative is designed to reduce intimidation and avoid direct contact with alleged abusers in court.
Chief Justice William R. “Bill” Wooton said the program uses video technology to provide a safer, more accessible path to justice. “Victims of domestic violence, stalking, rape or dating violence can seek the protections of the court in a safe, less intimidating setting,” Wooton explained.
SAFE, Inc. facilities in Mercer County will be open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and in McDowell County from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Victims can also access 24/7 support through SAFE’s hotline at (800) 688‑6157.
Demonstrations of the program will take place Thursday, December 11, at 10 a.m. in Judge Adam B. Wolfe’s courtroom in Princeton and at 1 p.m. in Judge Lisa K. Clark’s courtroom in Welch. SAFE representatives will join remotely to show how the system works.
Mercer and McDowell are the 13th and 14th counties to adopt the program, joining others including Kanawha, Cabell, and Monongalia. The initiative is funded through federal grants administered by the Division of Justice and Community Services and the West Virginia Foundation for Rape Information and Services.