TULSA, Okla. — As government and health officials ask the public to stay home to fight against COVID-19, concerns arose that the stress could lead to an increase in domestic violence.
So far in Tulsa, that does not appear to be the case.
Recent numbers show that domestic violence calls to the Tulsa Police Department did not go up or down in March, when compared to the same time last year.
However, the Tulsa Police Department's Family Violence Unit is answering all domestic violence calls coming in to 911 immediately.
The only change is that the officer may be wearing a protective face mask.
But not everyone may be able to make a call to 9-1-1 when they need help.
"We know it's sometimes difficult when you're at home with someone who might be abusive," Donna Matthews, Chief Operating Officer with Domestic Violence Intervention Services, said. "It's sometimes hard to reach out."
Mathews said there are other ways to reach out such as through direct message on Facebook or by sending an email to info@dvIs.org.
If you’re able to get to a phone, you can also call the 24 hour crisis line at 918-743-5763.
Regardless of the pandemic, these services will stay open and be available at all times.
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