Suffolk Victim/Witness Services

10/16/2026

More than just wearing purple — it’s about raising awareness, supporting survivors, and reminding our community that no one has to face domestic violence alone. 💜

10/01/2026

💜October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Suffolk Sheriff's Office stands united with our community to break the silence, support survivors, and end the cycle of abuse.

Domestic violence does not discriminate—it affects individuals of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you are not alone, and you do not have to navigate this journey in fear.

💫Both men and women can access confidential safety, shelter, and legal support through the following organizations:

📍The Genieve Shelter: Serving the City of Suffolk and surrounding areas, this organization provides safe emergency housing, trauma-informed counseling, case management, and legal advocacy for individuals and families fleeing domestic abuse. Victims can reach their 24/7 crisis hotline at 1-800-969-4673 or visit The Genieve Shelter Website.

📍H.E.R. Shelter (Help and Emergency Response, Inc.): Providing emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and leadership support to anyone experiencing domestic violence in the Hampton Roads area. Their 24-hour hotline is available at 757-485-3384.

📍Suffolk Victim/Witness Services: A division of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office that helps victims navigate the court system, understand their rights, and obtain protective orders. You can contact them directly via the Suffolk Victim/Witness Information Portal.

📍Virginia Legal Aid Society (VLAS): Offers free legal representation and guidance on protective orders, custody disputes, and safety planning for low-income individuals. Find eligibility tools on the Virginia Legal Aid Society Website or 757-539-3441.

📍Suffolk Police Department: For non-emergency reports or safety checks, call 757-923-2350. In any immediate danger, always call 911 immediately.

📲National Domestic Violence Hotline: Free, confidential support available 24/7 for anyone affected by abuse. Call 1-800-799-7233 or text "START" to 88788.

09/17/2026

Save the date for 2026! 💜🗓️

Purple is the color of domestic violence awareness, and wearing purple unites survivors and advocates across the country in our work to end abuse.



[Image description: Over a purple background and purple awareness ribbon, text reads: "Purple Thursday. Thursday, October 15." NNEDV and Every1KnowsSome1 logos below.]

08/14/2026

08/14/2026

04/24/2026

Over the past week for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we participated in the Color Me Aware campaign by the Victim Services division at the Virginia Department of Corrections.

Many thanks to our coworkers for enthusiastically showing their support all week!!

While this week may end, our responsibility does not. We remain dedicated to advocating for victims and strengthening the path toward healing and justice

•Monday - Purple or Yellow in representation of intimate partner violence (purple) and stalking (yellow)
•Tuesday - Red for DUI awareness
•Wednesday - Teal for sexual assault awareness
•Thursday - Blue for child abuse awareness
•Friday - Black & Red for homicide awareness

04/20/2026

For National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the Victim Services division at the Virginia Department of Corrections has created the Color Me Aware campaign - a creative and engaging way to show support for victims of crime:

•Monday - Purple or Yellow in representation of intimate partner violence (purple) and stalking (yellow)
•Tuesday - Red for DUI awareness
•Wednesday - Teal for sexual assault awareness
•Thursday - Blue for child abuse awareness
•Friday - Black & Red for homicide awareness

Share your Color Me Aware photos in the comments below! 💜💛❤️🩵💙🖤❤️

04/20/2026

This week, we recognize National Crime Victims’ Rights Week—a time to honor the strength, resilience, and voices of those impacted by crime.

Every survivor deserves to be heard, supported, and treated with dignity and respect. Today and every day, we stand with victims, their families, and the advocates who work tirelessly to ensure justice and healing.

Let’s continue to raise awareness, promote resources, and build a community where no one has to face their journey alone. 💙