If you are a victim, we are here to help you.

Domestic Violence is considered a serious crime by the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office. Investigators in the Personal Crimes Unit have received specialized training in this area and are also instructors in the field of Domestic Violence. Our Investigators will:

• Be good listeners and take complaints seriously
• Aim to intervene to prevent escalation of violence
• Work with victims to gather evidence for successful prosecution
• Refer victims for counseling, shelter, or other services
• Reduce the costs of domestic violence to the community
• Assist victim with court appearances
• Reduce the incidence of injury and death

If you or someone you love is a victim, please seek help.

Domestic Violence Facts

• Domestic violence occurs across all socioeconomic and demographic boundaries.
• The annual cost of domestic violence in the United States is estimated to be $67 billion.
• The abuser often maintains a public image as a friendly, caring, family oriented person. Friends or family may believe the victim is exaggerating when he/she reports abuse.
• Battering is the single major cause of injury to American women, more than muggings, rape, and auto accidents combined.
• Women are at 75% greater risk of death or injury when they leave the abusive relationship.

Secrecy empowers the abuser

Does the person you love...

• Keep track of your time?
• Criticize or humiliate you?
• Accuse you of being unfaithful?
• Control all the money, deny food, clothing, or medical care?
• Prevent you from working or going to school?
• Restrict your contact with family or friends?
• Anger easily when drinking?
• Hit, slap or punch you or your children?
• Threaten you with a weapon?
• Force you to have sex against your will?

IF YOU ANSWER YES TO ANY OF THESE QUESTIONS, TALK TO SOMEONE ABOUT IT.

SAFETY IS OUR FIRST CONCERN.

The safety of victims and children is our greatest concern. We realize that danger increases when victims attempt to leave an abusive relationship.

When leaving, the victim should:

• Know how to get a protective order.
• Be aware of safe places where to go.
• Place the following items with a trusted friend, relative or where the abuser cannot find them:
• $50 or more in cash
• Small bag with clothing for victim and children
• Important papers such as:
• Bank account numbers
• Check book
• Social Security number
• Abuser’s date of birth / social security number
• Insurance policies
• Marriage license
• Birth certificates for victim and children
• Important phone numbers
• Sentimental valuables
• Medications
• Extra house/car keys

DO NOT tell the abuser where the victim is going!

How We Help

We are a safe place — available 24/7.

Reducing Domestic Violence through...

• Leadership
• Strong law enforcement
• Education
• Working with the Domestic Violence Coalition, Family Violence Shelter and Services, and other community agencies
• Commitment to change

Criminal Investigation Division
6233 Dayton Blvd.
Chattanooga, TN 37343
Phone: (423) 209-8940
Fax: (423) 209-8878