RELEASE: Immediate,                 CONTACT: Atlantic County

                    Oct. 21, 2008                                        Republican Hdqs.

                                                                                   609-677-0707

 

 

BALLES RADIO SPOTS BEGIN; FOCUS ON

RESPONSE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

 

 

          Frank Balles, Republican candidate for Atlantic County Sheriff, today launched radio advertisements outlining his broad front plans for greater involvement of the Sheriff’s Department in combating domestic violence and assisting its victims. 

 

          Balles, a captain in the Pleasantville Police Department and a 23-year veteran of the force, began a two week run broadcasting the ads on station WOND.

 

          Balles has recommended:

 

* Creation of volunteer county wide domestic violence response team whose members would be trained to become certified crisis counselors to assist domestic violence victims in filing complaints, locating temporary safe housing and providing educational services.

 

* More rapid service of temporary restraining orders to provide immediate protection to victims so they are not left to fend for themselves and worry about adequate protection from an abusive spouse or friend.

 

*More timely service of warrants on violators of child support orders to assure that the appropriate level of financial assistance is available to those in need.

 

“Under the tenure of my opponent, the Sheriff’s Department has had very little involvement in dealing with the scourge of domestic violence,” Balles said.  “The Sheriff’s office, for instance, has never created a response team and there have been significant delays in serving court-issued restraining orders and warrants for non-support.” 

 

“The physical and emotional toll taken on domestic violence victims --- including children --- is enormous, “ Balles said.  “Victims oft times do not know where to turn for help, protection and a safe haven.  The Sheriff’s Department can fill that role and I am committed to doing so.” 

 

 

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Paid for by Atlantic County Republican Committee.  Michael Goloff, CPA, Treasurer.