In Harris County, we know that more than 40 percent of our homicides are the result of domestic violence. That’s why they announced a new initiative that would temporarily store firearms turned in by people who have protective orders filed against them in domestic violence cases.
The establishment of the “Safe Surrender” program is considered a major gain for domestic violence victims and advocacy groups since more than half of 2017 domestic violence fatalities in Texas are caused by gunshots.
In Harris County last year, there were almost 60,000 calls made to domestic violence hotlines. The county also led Texas that year in the highest number of deaths as a result of domestic violence, with 29 fatalities. Statewide, 136 women were killed, 65 percent of whom were shot. And the moment a victim decides to leave her abusive partner, her chances of being severely injured or murdered increases by 75 percent, studies show.
State and federal laws, enacted in the 1970s, mandates that people with protective orders filed against them are not allowed to possess firearms.
However, the judge said those individuals’ options were limited to either selling or transferring their guns to other people, resulting in many of them keeping their weapons unlawfully.
A year and a half ago, domestic violence agencies in Harris County joined with law enforcement agencies to establish the Safe Surrender Committee, which met monthly to find a way to decrease firearm possession among abusers.
As part of the new initiative, when a court approves a protective order against an individual, a copy will be sent to a Harris County Sheriff’s Deputy assigned to the Safe Surrender program. The individual then has the option to reach out to the deputy to store the firearm with the department until the protective order is expired.
Domestic violence offenses usually involve spouses, partners or people who are dating or living together. The prosecutors and lawmakers will continue to pursue the case even in situations where the alleged victim wishes to drop all charges. Therefore, it is crucial to have an experienced defense on your side.
A minor domestic incident could quickly lead to a more serious domestic abuse charge. For instance, if a harassment charge is alleged by a victim, and it’s found the victim and offender were involved in an intimate relationship, the law enforcement is required to make an immediate arrest to ensure the continued safety of the alleged victim, as well as the safety of other occupants in their home.
Lawyer of the Area
Once a domestic violence incident has been charged there’s no avoiding certain immediate, legal actions. If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, you need a credible and experienced defense lawyer to help you. Attorney Yong J. An is Texas’ finest when it comes to criminal defense.
If you have been accused of domestic violence, call or text 24/7 Attorney Abogado Yong J. An at 832 428 5679. Criminal Defense Attorney Abogado
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