Folsom PD launches new Violence Response Team

The Folsom Police Department announced a new Violence Response Team last week to support domestic violence victims in the city. The team includes an advocate who will respond to calls alongside officers, providing immediate on-site assistance and resources, police said. As part of the initiative, Folsom PD has also created a new "soft room" safe area using funds provided by Phyllis's Garden, a nonprofit run by East Area Rapist victim Kris Pedretti. "The soft room provides a comfortable space to help victims feel safe when sharing their experiences and receiving assistance," police staff said in the report. The goal is to provide critical support, encourage more victims to come forward, and connect victims with resources that promote long-term safety. The new response team aims to strengthen victim support by offering case management, safety planning and improved investigative outcomes. The program is a partnership between Folsom Police and WEAVE, or Women Escaping A Violent Environment. WEAVE is a nonprofit organization that provides services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that involves physical abuse or threat of physical abuse. Domestic violence may include physical, sexual, emotional and verbal abuse, economic coercion and isolation. Domestic violence is committed by adults or adolescents against their intimate partners in current or former dating, married or cohabitating relationships. Domestic violence does not discriminate against race, class, gender, sexual preference, age, or economic status. "By working together, the organizations aim to improve victim safety, encourage reporting and enhance investigations," staff said. For more information about available resources, call 916-461-6400, or visit the Folsom PD web page.