The Kent Police Department (KPD) announced this week that it has made significant strides in supporting victims of domestic violence through Project Be Free (PBF), a crisis response initiative aimed at providing immediate resources and assistance.
PBF partners with local agencies to offer critical support such as protection orders, mental health connections, youth services, and housing, especially during off-hours when other services are unavailable.
In August 2024 alone, KPD made 56 referrals to PBF, resulting in 23 protection orders, 13 mental health connections, and helping a family secure long-term housing.
“This is an amazing resource for our Officers who often find themselves in the situation where they have arrested the abuser, but the victim and their family need resources right now,” police said. “Often ‘right now’ is after most agencies are closed. They also provide a variety of domestic violence services that don’t need to be initiated by police.”
The program not only helps victims right after an arrest but also offers services that don’t need to be initiated by law enforcement, making it accessible for individuals and families seeking aid on their own terms.
Kent Police’s dedication to PBF has made a tangible difference in helping survivors navigate the legal and emotional challenges that come after incidents of domestic violence. Officers are trained to identify when individuals may benefit from PBF’s resources, ensuring that victims receive comprehensive support even outside normal business hours.
With the support of Project Be Free, KPD continues its commitment to the safety and well-being of domestic violence survivors in the community.
To learn more about Project Be Free, click below:
https://project-be-free.com/
Want to talk to someone at Project Be Free? Call (425) 324-5030.
Are you in danger or experiencing a domestic violence incident right now? CALL 911.
