Domestic Violence / Family Services Unit

This specialized unit was established in 1996 within the Southbridge Police Department. Officers are frequently sent to violence related training courses to continually monitor and modify our departments anti-violence programs. Officers act as liaisons between our department and different organizations to ensure continuity of safety for the victims. Those contact organizations include:

• New Hope
• Day Break
• Battered Shelters
• Department of Social Services
• Catholic Charities
• Southbridge Community Coalition
• Local Hospitals

Officer Gerald Arvelo is responsible for monitoring all domestic violence related investigations. His duties include filing all domestic violence related paperwork, and keeping restraining orders within the town of Southbridge up to date. He is responsible for follow-up investigations, including home visits and phone calls. He is also responsible for filing all paperwork to other agencies as may be required depending on the incident.

The unit is on call 24 hours a day and is often used to provide transportation for victims to court. The unit is also able to provide cell phones to victims who are in need of communication services. The unit serves as an invaluable service not only to the police department, but to the entire community.

Resources

We have provided a list of agencies, phone numbers and the services they provide as resources for victims. Please feel free to call 508-764-5420 or email Officer Arvelo at the Southbridge Police Department with any questions or concerns, or a situation that needs attention.

For immediate service for a domestic violence situation in progress please dial 911.