Survivors In Action

California Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program violates privacy etiquette 101

2011-07-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Over 1000 E-Mail Addresses Routinely Exposed By Californiaʼs 'Address Confidentialityʼ Program

By Jodie SanJuan - Executive Director of the Economic Abuse Recovery Center

How important is your privacy? To a stalking victim it could be a matter of life and death. According to Survivors in Action more than one million women and 370,000 men are stalked annually in the United States. Cyberstalking has unfortunately made locating and harassing a victim much easier, so when a stalking victim reaches out to an advocate or organization for help it is vitally important that we protect their information and privacy. So what exactly IS the industry standard for protecting a victimʼs privacy? The State of California has a Safe at Home confidentiality program that offers
victims privacy tools such as a free p.o box and a mail forwarding service. The Safe at Home website has tips for protecting privacy and they refer website visitors to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse. They recommend that organizations adhere to a good privacy policy and state that this is the first step towards gaining trust. It states that :

“If your organization sends e-mail messages or e-newsletters to members on a regular basis, you should make sure that the address list is hidden from other recipients. This will guard against people using the list to send spam as well as protect the privacy of your members. A common mistake is to send mass e-mails and forget to hide the list in the BCC address line (blind carbon copy). Better yet, invest in a broadcast e-mail program to ensure that recipients' e-mail addresses are not disclosed to others on the list. Be sure to read the privacy policies and terms of service of such companies and choose a service with a good privacy policy.”

Obviously this is great information and right on target - so why is the Safe at Home program endorsing information that warns other organizations about making this privacy mistake, and then they send out their OWN newsletter (in partnership with the National Stalking Resource Center) without utilizing the blind carbon copy method and expose over 1000 email addresses? A state-run ʻgo-toʼ program for victims should be setting the gold standard. According to the Safe at Home website they are the National Model for ʻconfidential addressʼ programs but frankly this is just sloppy and disappointing. How can they expect victims to trust them if they show such a blatant disregard for privacy? Using a random e-mail from their list I was able to perform a quick reverse-information search and obtain a scary amount of information about the person the e-mail address belongs to including a recent phone number, the name and address of their workplace and even a picture of them along with a description of what they do for the organization. Another random e-mail provided me with the time and date of a youth rally the e-mail recipient will most likely be attending. It is outrageous that this information was made accessible courtesy of Safe at Home - The implications of this are very serious and I urge them to change this practice immediately and begin safeguarding the privacy of the victims that turn to them for assistance, as well as the partner organizations within their network. To have this happen within an organization that serves domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault victims is simply unacceptable.
If you have a review of a domestic violence organization or state agency that you would like to share, Please visit www.domesticviolencenationalnetwork.org This is a grassroots movement where victims, advocates and friends of victims can share information and resources in an online support community. The mission is to hold domestic violence organizations, charities, coalitions, and advocates accountable and to ensure that they are providing real help to those who need it most - the victims.

Audit exposes domestic violence shelter Grace Smith House executives take paid retreat and victims left behind

2011-06-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Audit exposes domestic violence shelter Grace Smith House in Dutchess County New York executives and staff take paid retreat while victims are left behind
By Maria DiBari, domestic violence survivor
Founder Tri-County Crisis Center

Yes, that is true. The Grace Smith House works so hard they needed to go to a Hudson Valley Retreat to get pampered and "brainstorm". They have been working so hard, it seems they don't even have time to follow up with our local Dutchess County victim/mom who has been waiting for their call.

Grantee organizations can utilize the time to develop strategic plans, cultivate relationships among their board members and with other nonprofits on campus, re-engage with their mission statement, deepen staff cooperation, and enjoy some much needed peace and relaxation.

Re-engage with this mission statement: When a victim reaches out for help to the same organization that is funded by the county and given many donations by local businesses, the organization should respond. A simple response and basic assistance would work!

Peace and relaxation, what job encourages peace and relaxation?
I would personally enjoy giving the Grace Smith House, as well as the other Victim Service Providers in the area and in NY a "strategic planning lesson".

Here is the lesson: Do your job and assist victims in need. If your business is to shelter, then let's try sheltering more than 19 women at a time. Do one service right. Follow-up with victims that depend on your funds for their survival.

Recently, I found the Grace Smith House Audit for 2009-2010. This audit is proof of why there needs to be an Oversight Committee to watch over these organizations. Double paychecks being cashed, bonuses, and more for the staff, feel free to read on your own.

At Tri-County Crisis Center, Inc., we have proof and documentation that the services are not working for victims. Victims reach out and there is little to no follow-up with VSPs, no resources available, and victims are finding it challenging to get basic services at all.

The Hidden Costs of Advocacy- lack of collaboration costly to victims

2011-06-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

The Surprising Hidden Cost of Economic Abuse Advocacy
By Jodie SanJuan
Executive Director Economic Abuse Recovery Center

The Economic Abuse Recovery Center is dedicated to helping victims of economic abuse as they progress towards self-sufficiency. With that being said, I thought it was safe to assume that other organizations and advocacy groups with a a similar objective would advocate with us. Wouldn’t that be fantastic? Organizations working together, sharing information about our common goal to break the cycle of economic abuse. If you do a quick Google search about economic abuse one of the things you will notice is that the agencies that do talk about it mention over and over how it is unseen and rarely discussed - both of these facts are true. We can all agree that raising awareness about economic abuse is essential. Now here’s what I find confusing: I have been doing extensive research on the topic of economic abuse and of course I turned to who I believed were the ‘go-to’ organizations in regards to economic abuse research and information and what I found left me dumbfounded. While reviewing economic abuse facts on the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s website, I thought that it might be a great idea to add a few of those facts on our website and of course cite the NCADV’s website as the source of this information. As a national organization that is well-funded I can appreciate the information and research findings that they have to offer. Upon further investigation, I discovered a page on their website that contained rules to reproduce or even repost information from their website. You must not only submit a request on a lengthy form that contains 18 different questions, but it clearly states that if you are not a current member (and membership is not free) then they reserve the right to impose a fee. Needless to say I found this discouraging and did not complete the form and of course, I did not use information from their website.

During the course of my research I also contacted a Foundation that widely publicizes the fact that they are advocating for victims of economic abuse. In this case, I did contact them requesting permission to post a few facts from their research on our website and that I would cite the source of information. Well they never even bothered to get back to me. They discuss on their website the importance of ‘spreading the word’ and how they educate and train advocates. Well I am an advocate, as a matter of fact we are a network of advocates and obviously they aren’t even interested in responding to us - again, very disappointing.

So what kind of ‘outreach’ are we doing here? If you are a group or organization, the NCADV will share their information with you, but that’s as far as it goes unless you pay them a fee. Isn’t that kind of like saying “I’ll tell you about the devastating effects of substance abuse but you can’t warn others until you pay me”?

These recent discoveries truly make me appreciate the groups that the Economic Abuse Recovery Center does partner with - The Tri-County Crisis Center and Survivors in Action. I am proud to say that the information flows freely and I consider them to be valuable allies in the fight against Economic Abuse. For more information about the Economic Abuse Recovery Center or to download a FREE copy of our “Guide Towards Self-Sufficiency” please visit our website at www.economicabuserecoverycenter.org

Jodie SanJuan
Executive Director
Economic Abuse Recovery Center

Message from Alexis A. Moore founder Survivors In Action:

As the founder of Survivors In Action non-profit crime victims organization I am aware of the fact that the domestic violence national and state coalitions/partnerships as well as other privately and publicly funded organizations do charge what they refer to as "membership fees" in order to collaborate and network. Survivors In Action and Tri-County Crisis Center will NOT ever charge a fee to collaborate in fact we feel so strongly that networking is vital to public safety that we have created Crime Victim Organization and Advocate Network on-line list serve for ALL who work, volunteer or are affiliated with public safety and crime victim advocacy to share information and to collaborate for free. To learn more about CVON click here Survivors Im Action and Tri-County Crisis Center "putting the needs of all victims first so that no victim is left behind".

A Paren'ts Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying: Protecting your children as simple as 1-2-3" by Alexis A. Moore founder Survivors In Action

2011-06-27T07:08:00.001-07:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying
the must have 21st century handbook for parents, educators, coaches and those who want to help protect and assist our world's youth from cyberstalking and cyberbullying.

Order your copy today at the Survivors In Action web site or for your Kindle on Amazon. 100% of the proceeds are being donated to create the nation's fist victim resource and assist victims directly.

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

a movement against domestic violence: Dutchess County Victim Service Providers ignore and overly refer local domestic violence victim/mother#links

2011-06-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

a movement against domestic violence: Dutchess County Victim Service Providers ignore and overly refer local domestic violence victim/mother#links

Time for New York Public Officials, New York Coalition Against Domestic Violence and other victim service providers funded by the private and public sector to "step up to the plate" and support domestic violence victims

2011-06-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

Message from Tri-County Crisis Center, Inc. founder Maria DiBari

Tri-County Crisis Center has been assisting local Dutchess County mom for nearly 2 months. This woman has been through the system and spit out, left with an on going custody battle for her child who resides with a rapist/abuser and no services in the area to help her. Local mom reached out to every agency in the local area and state: Battered Women's Services, The Citizens Advisory Committee for DV, LSHV, NYS Coalition, the OPDV, the Bar Association, Dutchess Outreach, and the United Way, as well as the PD, Grace Smith House, the local legislature and Senator Saland and Assemblyman Joel Miller.

Not one agnency has offered any real solutions and all have re-referred her to the same places she has already been to for help. Tri-County Crisis Center, Inc. welcomes tough cases, high risk cases, the cases that all other agencies pass along like hot potatoes. Victims need help, lawyers, resources, counseling, and transportation. Local mom should be able to receive some services, but after reaching out, only a handful have responded and the response was pitiful.

Tri-County Crisis Center, Inc. has been able to get local mom free legal advice, which is something she should have been given through local victim service providers in the area. Through volunteer efforts and "time", TCCC is picking this case apart and making a bit of headway. When other VSPs pass the victim off and ignore, we pick victims up and try to get resources to work.

After many, many homicides in Dutchess County, local mom should be acknowledged and assisted in a timely manner. There is no excuse for the endless referrals and the lack of assistance we have been seeing from local agencies that take all the funding, leaving so many behind.

Today, this victim was even unable to get transportation to a legal office-so we took her. This is unacceptable and needs to be addressed immediately by the county and state. We MUST be able to at least get victims basic resources like a cab ride, counseling, and a lawyer. NO EXCUSES. TCCC is operating on NO FUNDS and has been able to do more than large, funded VSP's (Victim Service Providers).

Dutchess County-GET IT TOGETHER and show us where the money for victims is going.

Maria DiBari
Tri-County Crisis Center, Inc.

Dutchess County New York and New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence it is time to "get it together": Abuse victims continue to fall through the cracks and be left behind in New York and U.S.

2011-06-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action and Tri-County Crisis Center coast to coast efforts to help ensure "no victim is left behind"

2011-06-21T08:44:00.001-07:00

Survivors In Action joins New York’s Tri-County Crisis Center to push for DV REFORM -domestic violence victim resource and public policy reform helping to ensure no victim is left behind.

The DV Establishments of today are failing to address the needs of abuse victims in the 21st century. The rise in the numbers of victims who reach out for help to traditional domestic violence resources, shelters, state coalitions and partnerships as well as to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and networks are finding far too often that no real help exists, and this must change in 2011.

Survivors In Action, national non-profit crime victims organization in partnership with the Tri-County Crisis Center in New York , are joining forces in the push for accountability of domestic violence and stalking victim resources of today and have established what is fast becoming an internationally recognized movement to reform public policy and domestic violence and stalking victim resources throughout the nation.

Addressing the needs of the LGBT community along with male victims, military victims, officer-involved victims and immigrants is part of this campaign.

"Addressing the needs of the LGBT community, male victims, victims of officer-involved, immigrants and all abuse and stalking victims needs to be the priority of our nation's efforts to aid abuse victims, not an after thought", says Maria DiBari the founder and Executive Director of Tri-County Crisis Center in New York, which was successful this past month in proposing the nation's first DV REFORM legislation.

"There is nothing worse than knowing that today's domestic violence and stalking victim resources are failing victims and not just women and children are being left behind. Women, men, children, immigrants, victims of officer involved domestic violence and victims within the LGBT community deserve equal protections and services and this is what DV REFORM is all about."

Assisting all victims of stalking and domestic violence regardless of race, gender, marital status or the batterer's occupation must be top priority of the crime victim service providers of today or victims will continue to be left behind", says Alexis A. Moore founder of Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization.

To learn more about DV REFORM and how you can help to bring about change to ensure "no victim of stalking or abuse is left behind" contact Info(at)TriCountyCrisisCenter.org for more information.

A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying by Alexis A. Moore

2011-06-14T10:57:00.001-07:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

Dr. Timothy J. Rosio ANew Skin Dermatology in El Dorado Hills, California making battered women's lives beautiful

2011-06-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

Tri-County Crisis Center, Inc. and Survivors in Action were successful at getting a California DV victim pro bono surgery today!

Special thanks to Dr. Timothy J. Rosio in El Dorado Hills CA for donating his time to victims of domestic violence in California. Dr. Rosio we are grateful for your kindness and generosity!

For those wishing to pay it forward please visit ANewSKin Dermatology today for all of your skin care needs.

Today was a succes. Together with Survivors in Action, this victim in need was able to get free surgery offered to her in 2 days.

This is advocacy and teamwork at it's best.

Order your copy today of "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying: Protecting Your Children as Simple as 1-2-3" 100% of proceeds being donated to create victim resource and assist victims

2011-05-31T09:39:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

A Paren'ts Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying: Protecting your children as simple as 1-2-3"

2011-05-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

Many still hope 2011 is year White House Advisor on Violence Against Women takes action to ensure no victim is left behind

2011-05-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

Victims of domestic violence continue to fallng through the cracks.

Appointed White House Advisor on Violence against Women disappointment for many who hoped for more but 2011 could still be year for real reform.

DV REFORM-domestic violence victim resource and public policy reform still remains top priority of non-profit advocacy organizations like Survivors In Action and others to ensure no victim is left behind.

AN OPEN LETTER TO LYNN ROSENTHAL
NEW WHITE HOUSE ADVISOR ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

On June 26, 2009, Vice President Biden named Lynn Rosenthal as White House Advisor on Violence Against Women (VAW). Rosenthal has championed the movement against domestic and sexual violence for three decades, leading the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) from 2000 to 2006. Most recently, she served as executive director of the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Previously, she played a major advocacy role in reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act and assisted states and communities with its implementation. For the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence, she developed service models and created the state’s first comprehensive plan to help survivors find housing. She has also worked with corporate partners to promote economic empowerment for survivors and to bring millions of dollars in aid to communities in responding to domestic violence.

Ms. Lynn Rosenthal
White House Advisor on Violence Against Women

Dear Ms. Rosenthal,

As you are aware, domestic violence is a matter of life and death for millions of Americans. Each month, it is estimated that thousands of victims are turned away from state and federally funded domestic violence coalitions and shelters. These victims ¬-- abused by the people they trust -- have no recourse when this happens, and no place to report their experiences or grievances.

The cold, hard reality is that these victims are falling through the cracks—ignored by the very organizations whose mission is to assist them. Because of this failure, a growing number of victims are reaching out to Survivors In Action (SIA), a non-profit national advocacy group that provides individual assistance to victims of domestic abuse.

Ms. Rosenthal, given your extraordinary qualifications and clear commitment to preventing domestic violence, SIA is encouraged by your appointment as White House Advisor. Your appointment signals recognition at the highest levels of government that now is the time for real change and domestic violence resource reform. Without such reform, more victims will be subject to what advocates and victims now refer to as "The DV Run Around," and more will die.

We believe the DV Run Around occurs in large part because there is so little oversight of how funds are used by the thousands of state and federally funded domestic violence organizations and no assessment of whether these organizations are meeting victims’ needs. Additionally, DV reform has done very little to assist teen, LGBT and male victims -- who are afraid to reach out for help because of social stigma -- or victims of military or officer-involved violence, who remain silent for fear of legal repercussions. Accordingly, SIA is leading a two-pronged movement for national domestic violence resource reform:

• First, we are advocating that the government audit the federal grants and other funds that domestic violence organizations receive to determine how these funds are being used and to ensure accountability.
• Second, we are advocating the creation of a Federal Domestic Violence Oversight Committee to oversee state and federally funded domestic violence organizations and provide victims a place to document their experiences and file complaints.

As evidence of increasing public recognition of the urgent need for measures like these, we have obtained more than 1,000 signatures on our petition for Domestic Violence Resource Reform in just a matter of weeks.

As stated by Family Violence Prevention Fund President Esta Soler, “At a time when domestic, dating and sexual violence are pervasive problems that touch every community, and on average three women are murdered each day by their husbands or boyfriends, we need renewed attention to this issue and increased resources for victims and prevention measures.”

Ms. Rosenthal, I can’t express this any more clearly than Ms. Soler has in her statement above. The victims of domestic violence desperately need—and SIA respectfully requests—your support for the above measures. Please stand up for these reforms now.

Thank you so much for your attention and concern.

Sincerely,

Alexis A. Moore
President
Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

What is Survivors In Action?
Survivors In Action (SIA) is a non-profit national advocacy group that supports victims and the families of victims of any crime, including domestic violence, identity theft, elder abuse, cyberstalking, stalking, child abuse, rape, and sexual assault Other national organizations typically help victims at specific points in their victimization cycle—such as when they first report the crime or in writing parole opposition letters—leaving “gaps” in needed services. SIA is the only organization that fills the gaps, providing support through all stages of the journey from victim to survivor, with no time limitations, cut-off dates, or conditions. Our mission is to ensure that no victim anywhere in the nation is left behind.

Victims of domestic violence continue to fall through the cracks

2011-05-25T14:03:00.001-07:00

Protecting seniors from 21st century predators by Alexis A. Moore founder Survivors In Action

2011-05-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

Protecting seniors from 21st century predators by Alexis A. Moore founder Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization

Individuals and entities that are sending what appear to be messages from banks, pay pal, mortgage companies, lottery offices or even state licensing agencies are nothng more than a nuisance for most of us, however many seniors are not so lucky and fall prey and are being victimized by these scams at an alarming rate.

Our nation's senior population is being targeted more frequently by these scammers who far too often succeed in defrauding and scamming millions of our nation's seniors every year. Incidents that have been reported to Survivors In Action by seniors from across the country reveal that this is a growing problem that needs as much awareness as possible to help ensure no victim is left behind.

Promoting awareness and urging your elderly loved ones and friends to take pause before responding to telephone or postal mail requests for information is one way to help combat these crimes being perpetrated upon our nation's senior population.

One example that was shared within a list serve that I belong to is a must read for those of you who work in public safety or may have relatives and friends susceptible.

An elderly woman in a small town in Illinois received a series of calls from someone trying to convince her to "Pay our deliveryman $250 and receive your package containing $1.5 million." The calls kept coming and, in an effort to stem them, another party told the caller that the calls were causing the neighbor undue stress. At that point the caller threatened to kill the second party and the neighbor.

Last summer, a similar caller said he was with the FBI and if the neighbor didn't show up at the courthouse at 10 a.m. he'd haul her out of her house, take her stuff, and padlock the house.

The incident above is real and for those of you who have parents or loved one's in their golden years, it is critical that you stay in close contact with your loved ones and urge them to be aware and alert of callers and letters that arrive in the mail requesting their private information or threatening to foreclose on their property.

Many of the scammers are more sophisticated than ever before because of the use of technology including caller-id spoof and the use of on-line datafurnishing agencies that provide consumer private records including birth records, banking records, social security numbers and other private data that makes an unsuspecting senior very vulnerable to attack.

Please help encourage those who care for the elderly to be alert as well. The scammers are becoming more brave and will even appear at the seniors doorstep with the hoax of being a representative from the court or a bank.

It is always better to error on the side of safety and caution first. If it is really a legitimate businessman or woman they will be more than willing to go through the necessary steps and take the time to verify who they are without question.

If you believe you may have been a victim of one of these scams don't be ashamed reach out for help. If you are a care giver or want to learn more how you can protect vulnerable seniors in your community visit Survivors In Action web site for more information.

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

Teens dating and violence- research reveals difficulties for victims finding help and assistance

2011-05-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action and advocates have been tackling the difficult task of promoting awareness of the realities faced by victims of intimate partner violence and stalking when they reach out for help in the United States.

The movement known as DV REFORM (domestic violence victim resource and public policy reform) was launched in 2009 to promote awareness of the dire need to reform victim resources and public policy to help ensure "no victim is left behind". Part of the DV REFORM movement includes ensuring that teen dating violence victims have a place to turn too for help and support.

During a recent research study conducted by Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore and Maria DiBari executive director of the Tri-County Crisis Center it was discovered that teens in abusive relationships reaching out for help are faced with the same hurdles posed by adult victims of domestic violence and in some ways teens face even bigger challenges.

Survivors In Action volunteers began a research campaign attempting to determine if there were any support services or resources for teens experiencing dating violence. Our findings were startling.

After picking up the phone and dialing hotlines and shelters throughout the U.S. it became apparent that teens like the adult victims of abuse and stalking find it very tough if not impossible at times to find help and support.

We were unable to find any shelter that would accept teens in abusive relationships except for a handful, and the victim service providers that we pressed to answer the proverbial question "why?" stated that they, "may consider the idea if they had written permission from a parent or guardian". The majority of shelters and victim service providers polled however cited they did not serve teens and that they served adult victims.

Today's news headlines promoting awareness of teens experiencing dating violence fall short by failing to mention that awareness is only part of the issue. One of the most important aspects of teen dating violence that is being overlooked is how our nation is going to address the issue of offering support and resources to teens today including LGBT teens experiencing dating violence.

"Awareness is only the first step today in 2011. Teens along with all victims of abuse and intimate partner violence need support and resources to turn too for help, anything less is unacceptable", says Maria DiBari the founder of the executive director of the Tri-County Crisis Center New York. DiBari an abuse survivor cites her passion stems from her own personal experiences reaching out for help and assisting other victims over the years.

"Teens, LGBT teens, men, women and immigrants all need support and resources. Intimate partner violence does not discriminate", says DiBari.

DiBari and Moore plan to continue to find ways to work with public officials and local, state, and national domestic violence agencies to improve the resources and public policy initiatives in place today involving intimate partner violence and stalking.

"There is an increasing awareness regarding teen dating violence and this is great; however, having adequate resources to address those who are brave enough to reach out for help is what is going to help save lives", says Alexis A. Moore founder of the non-profit organization Survivors In Action based in California.

If you are a teen in need of support or assistance you are not alone.

Survivors In Action joins New York’s Tri-County Crisis Center to push for DV REFORM

2011-05-18T08:24:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action joins New York’s Tri-County Crisis Center to push for DV REFORM -domestic violence victim resource and public policy reform helping to ensure no victim is left behind.

The DV Establishments of today are failing to address the needs of abuse victims in the 21st century. The rise in the numbers of victims who reach out for help to traditional domestic violence resources, shelters, state coalitions and partnerships as well as to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and networks are finding far too often that no real help exists, and this must change in 2011.

Survivors In Action, national non-profit crime victims organization in partnership with the Tri-County Crisis Center in New York , are joining forces in the push for accountability of domestic violence and stalking victim resources of today and have established what is fast becoming an internationally recognized movement to reform public policy and domestic violence and stalking victim resources throughout the nation.

Addressing the needs of the LGBT community along with male victims, military victims and immigrants is part of this campaign.

"Addressing the needs of the LGBT community, male victims, victims of officer-involved, immigrants and all abuse and stalking victims needs to be the priority of our nation's efforts to aid abuse victims, not an after thought", says Maria DiBari the founder and Executive Director of Tri-County Crisis Center in New York, which was successful this past month in proposing the nation's first DV REFORM legislation.

"There is nothing worse than knowing that today's domestic violence and stalking victim resources are failing victims and not just women and children are being left behind. Women, men, children, immigrants, victims of officer involved domestic violence and victims within the LGBT community deserve equal protections and services and this is what DV REFORM is all about."

Assisting all victims of stalking and domestic violence regardless of race, gender, marital status or the batterer's occupation must be top priority of the crime victim service providers of today or victims will continue to be left behind", says Alexis A. Moore founder of Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization.

To learn more about DV REFORM and how you can help to bring about change to ensure "no victim of stalking or abuse is left behind" contact Info(at)TriCountyCrisisCenter.org for more information.

Tri-County Crisis Center and Survivors In Action address the dire need for domestic violence resources to support immigrant and miltary victims of domestic violence

2011-05-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action joins New York’s Tri-County Crisis Center to push for DV REFORM -domestic violence victim resource and public policy reform helping to ensure no victim is left behind.

The DV Establishments of today are failing to address the needs of abuse victims in the 21st century. The rise in the numbers of victims who reach out for help to traditional domestic violence resources, shelters, state coalitions and partnerships as well as to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and networks are finding far too often that no real help exists and this must change in 2011.

Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization in partnership with the Tri-County Crisis Center in New York are joining forces in the push for accountability of domestic violence and stalking victim resources of today and have established what is fast becoming an internationally recognized movement to reform public policy and domestic violence and stalking victim resources throughout the nation.

Addressing the needs of the LGBT community along with male victims, military victims and immigrants is part of this campaign.

"Addressing the needs of the LGBT community, male victims, victims of officer-involved, immigrants and all abuse and stalking victims needs to be the priority of our nation's efforts to aid abuse victims, not an after thought", says Maria DiBari the founder and executive director of the Tri-County Crisis Center in New York which was successful this past month in proposing the nation's first DV REFORM legislation.

"There is nothing worse than knowing that today's domestic violence and stalking victim resources are failing victims and not just women and children are being left behind. Women, men, children, immigrants, victims of officer involved domestic violence and victims within the LGBT community deserve equal protections and services and this is what DV REFORM is all about."

Assisting all victims of stalking and domestic violence regardless of race, gender, marital status or the batterer's occupation must be top priority of the crime victim service providers of today or victims will continue to be left behind", says Alexis A. Moore founder of Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization.

To learn more about DV REFORM and how you can help to bring about change to ensure "no victim of stalking or abuse is left behind" contact Info(at)TriCountyCrisisCenter.org for more information.

DV REFORM and addressing the needs of all victims of domestic violence including LGBT, Male victims and Immigrants

2011-05-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action joins New York’s Tri-County Crisis Center to push for DV REFORM -domestic violence victim resource and public policy reform helping to ensure no victim is left behind.

The DV Establishments of today are failing to address the needs of abuse victims in the 21st century. The rise in the numbers of victims who reach out for help to traditional domestic violence resources, shelters, state coalitions and partnerships as well as to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and networks are finding far too often that no real help exists and this must change in 2011.

Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization in partnership with the Tri-County Crisis Center in New York are joining forces in the push for accountability of domestic violence and stalking victim resources of today and have established what is fast becoming an internationally recognized movement to reform public policy and domestic violence and stalking victim resources throughout the nation.

Addressing the needs of the LGBT community along with male victims, military victims and immigrants is part of this campaign.

"Addressing the needs of the LGBT community, male victims, victims of officer-involved, immigrants and all abuse and stalking victims needs to be the priority of our nation's efforts to aid abuse victims, not an after thought", says Maria DiBari the founder and executive director of the Tri-County Crisis Center in New York which was successful this past month in proposing the nation's first DV REFORM legislation.

"There is nothing worse than knowing that today's domestic violence and stalking victim resources are failing victims and not just women and children are being left behind. Women, men, children, immigrants, victims of officer involved domestic violence and victims within the LGBT community deserve equal protections and services and this is what DV REFORM is all about."

Assisting all victims of stalking and domestic violence regardless of race, gender, marital status or the batterer's occupation must be top priority of the crime victim service providers of today or victims will continue to be left behind", says Alexis A. Moore founder of Survivors In Action national non-profit crime victims organization.

To learn more about DV REFORM and how you can help to bring about change to ensure "no victim of stalking or abuse is left behind" contact Info(at)TriCountyCrisisCenter.org for more information.

Stalking victims and advocates believe that the key needed to bring about real change in the stalking victim resource system lies in Mark Zuckerberg’s hands

2011-05-14T08:33:00.001-07:00

Mark Zuckerberg’s stalking case can be a triumph for stalking victims around the world.

Yep, you read that right. Stalking victims and advocates believe that the key needed to bring about real change in the stalking victim resource system lies in Mark Zuckerberg’s hands. Not that we wanted him to suffer the horrors that we’ve suffered. No, we hope his stalking ordeal ends quickly and happily. But this talented social networking giant has the power, the technology and the international exposure needed to unlock the gates of reform. He is the key to help us bring real attention to the cyberstalking epidemic and the tens of thousands of victims who suffer each year.

Mark Zuckerberg may not yet know that he holds the golden key. But after speaking with non-profit leaders throughout the nation, there was a resounding notion that he has the power to ensure that no stalking victim is left behind in 2011. So I am sending out this virtual SOS and hoping that he hears our signal.

Welcome to our club, Mark Zuckerberg.

We have hundreds of thousands of members, so unfortunately it’s not a very exclusive club. Our members come from all walks of life though, women and men, boys and girls, rich, poor, famous and unknown. As you’ve learned, there are lots of awful dues to pay and membership is never any fun. I know, you never wanted to join and truly, we are sorry that you are here. But without a doubt, you are now a card-carrying member of the Stalking Victims Club.

I am president of Survivors in Action, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of cyberstalking and physical stalking. As a cyberstalking expert and advocate, I work every day to convince our legislators and the law enforcement and justice communities that stalking—both on line and offline—is a real and dangerous threat for all Americans. It’s a crime, but these criminals very often escape prosecution. As you learned the hard way, it’s hard to fight an attacker you can’t see. This crime is growing very extremely quickly, but the victims often receive very little support until it’s too late.

One of the most frustrating things I deal with everyday is disbelief and complacency. People simply don’t believe cyberstalking can ever happen to them. It only happens to other people, not them. But as your situation clearly demonstrates, there is no “free pass”, not even for celebrities, social networking giants, reporters, and high-tech investigators. When it comes to cyberstalking and physical stalking, we are all at risk. Both you and I know it’s true. After all, if the leader of Facebook can be victimized, then no one is safe.

We now live much of our lives on line, but the technologies we use also give our cyberstalkers a vast array of tools to attack us. We need help to fight back. We need to educate the public about the many ways they can proactively protect themselves. We need the on-line leaders to develop new safety programs that help us identify and stop cyberassaults. We need high-profile advocates, like you, to bring attention to the situation and help us convince legislators that more must be done to protect the public. We need new laws to protect us and more funds to train law enforcement and court personnel, create Stalking Victim Resource Centers, and prosecute criminals. Most importantly, we need to teach victims that there are ways that they can fight back, stop the attacks and rebuild their lives.
Mark, your recent stalking situation has renewed hope for the millions who are stalked each year, but who have suffered needlessly while trying to find help. Our hope is that your case can bring much needed attention to this growing crime. Most stalking victims don’t have your technological know-how, your vast networks, or your financial resources. But your very public battle with cyberstalking can help them access the support they need.

Many stalking victim advocates, like me, believe strongly that unlike the other celebrity stalking cases, yours will be the key. With your understanding of 21st century technologies, knowledge of on-line networking and communities, and the Facebook revolution behind you, you pack a double punch. Your social networking status is exactly what we need to take fight to the next level. With your help, we can fight this high-tech crime with 21st century technologies and win the fight against these high-tech criminals.

So Mark, if you are reading this, I am ready, willing, and able to help. My organization has hundreds of volunteers and we help tens of thousands of cyberstalking and physical stalking victims each year. But there is so much more to be done. I believe that you were named Time Magazine’s 2010 Person of the Year for a reason. Please Mark, join us in our fight to ensure that no stalking victim is left behind.

Alexis A. Moore
President, Survivors in Action
www.survivorsinaction.com

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

It's time to "safeguard your home before you leave on vacation"

2011-05-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

As summer draws near and more and more families will be traveling for summer vacations it is more important now than ever to take these expert tips and advice to help "safeguard your home before you leave on vacation.

Safeguarding your home before you leave for vacation
By Selena Dehne

After returning home from a fabulous vacation, the last thing you’ll want to experience is the aftermath of a break-in that occurred while you were out of town. Such a dilemma can be heartbreaking and debilitating, which is why it’s so important that before you pack your bags and hit the road, you first take action to safeguard your home and deter would-be thieves from breaking into it.

Here are several tips for keeping your home and belongings secure while you’re out of town and having the time of your life!

Never, ever, mention your travel plans on the Internet.
No matter how excited you are about your trip, the Internet is not the appropriate place to broadcast your enthusiasm.

Too often, people post messages and pictures that publicize that they’ll be away from home for several days. According to Alexis A. Moore, president and founder of Survivors in Action, mistakes like this “invite predators to your home.”

Instead of using social media and blogs to discuss your trip before you leave, wait until after you are back to post pictures from the trip and comments about how wonderful it was.

Maintain the appearance that your house is occupied, even when it’s not.
If potential thieves are under the impression that someone is staying in your home, they’re much less likely to break into it or snoop around the house.

Jonathan Frase, president of Frase Protection, Inc., a Memphis-based security and fire monitoring company, and Greg Polley, vice president of sales and marketing for Frase Protection, say that lighting is an important component in this strategy. “Invest in timers for lamps and porch lights. You can purchase alternating timed switches at the hardware store, which enable you to set varying times for your lights to switch on and off,” they explain.

Another tip Frase and Polley offer is to have someone stay at your house at night or stop by your house at least once a day to pick up your mail. If this is cost-prohibitive for your budget, Frase and Polley say the second best option is to have the post office hold your mail temporarily.

Philip Farina, CPP, CLSD, a personal security expert with Farina and Associates, Ltd., suggests leaving a car parked in your driveway rather than inside the garage while you’re gone. “This will also give the impression that someone is at home,” he explains.

Ask people you trust to keep an eye on your home for you.
Shyness or embarrassment shouldn’t prevent you from reaching out to others for help in looking after your home. A few days before you leave for vacation, Frase and Polley encourage you to notify your local police department about your plans. “Many police departments will drive by and check your house at least once a day if you inform them of your out-of-town dates. Some even have a website feature where all you have to do is fill out a form to let them know.”

Another smart strategy is to ask a trustworthy neighbor for a few favors while you’re out of town. “Ask them to set aside any packages or mail so that things are not piling up on your doorstop. Have them be your eyes and ears,” says Moore.

CA Senate Bill 557: National Family Law Justice Center vows to assist victims of officer involved domestic violence, cyberbullying, cyberstalking, stalking -human trafficking and others

2011-05-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

After some e-mail communications back and forth with National Family Law Justice Center Director Casey Gwinn and a telephone conversation with Gael Strack, Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore was able to make some progress in the movement to reform services for victims of cyberstalking, stalking, cyberbullying and officer involved domestic violence groups that usually find it nearly impossible to find any help or assistance.

Included in the amended version of California Senate Bill 557 is language identifying that these groups will be served by the Family Law Justice Center being proposed to be established in Sacramento, California.

Survivors In Action in action well known for leading the movement known as DV REFORM is not an agency that is going to allow the buck to stop here.

"When victims of officer-involved domestic violence, cyberstalking, stalking, cyberbullying and other criminalities reach out for help to organizations that are funded to support victims- the resources need to be held accountable to the victims that they pledge to serve and Survivors In Action will do our best to ensure that the National Family Law Justice Center stays true to their words and serves the victims of the criminalities mentioned", says Alexis A. Moore founder and President of Survivors In Action.

The economic climate of today coupled with the increasing numbers of victims reaching out for help to find that no help exists now makes it more important than ever to ensure accountability of all crime victim resources and especially those funded by funding from the private and public sector.

Literally billions in funding is allocated to crime victim resource providers yet there is no accountability measures in place to ensure that the victims that they are supposed to be serve actually receive the benefits of the services that are supposed to be offered.

Survivors In Action had success helping to ensure that the written language was modified now it is time for the Family Law Justice Center to take action to help ensure that the action steps are taken to ensure "no victim is left behind".

CORRECTED APRIL 27, 2011
AMENDED IN SENATE APRIL 25, 2011
AMENDED IN SENATE APRIL 05, 2011

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE— 2011–2012 REGULAR SESSION

SENATE BILL No. 557
________________________________________

Introduced by Senator Kehoe
(Coauthor(s): Assembly Member Atkins, Fletcher)

February 17, 2011

________________________________________
An act to add Title 5.3 (commencing with Section 13750) to Part 4 of the Penal Code, relating to family justice centers.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL DIGEST
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST

SB 557, as amended, Kehoe. Family justice centers.
Existing law provides for various services and programs to assist victims of crime, including grants to proposed and existing child sexual exploitation and child abuse victim counseling centers and prevention programs, and the establishment of a resource center to operate a statewide, toll-free information service consisting of legal information for crime victims and providers of services to crime victims.
This bill would authorize a city, county, or city and county to establish a multiagency, multidisciplinary family justice center to assist victims of domestic violence, officer-involved domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, stalking, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and human trafficking, to ensure that victims of abuse are able to access all needed services in one location and to enhance victim safety, increase offender accountability, and improve access to services for victims of crime, as provided. The bill would permit the family justice centers to be staffed by law enforcement, medical, social service, and child welfare personnel, among others.
The bill would provide that all information and documents provided to a family justice center by a victim are confidential and would authorize a family justice center to share information pursuant to an informed consent process, as provided. The bill would require, if a city, county, or city and county establishes a family justice center, each family justice center to maintain a formal training program with mandatory training for all staff members, volunteers, and agency professionals, as specified.
Digest Key
Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: NO Local Program: NO Urgency: NO Tax Levy: NO
________________________________________
Bill Text
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1.
Title 5.3 (commencing with Section 13750) is added to Part 4 of the Penal Code, to read:
TITLE 5.3. Family Justice Centers
13750.
(a) A city, county, or city and county may establish a multiagency, multidisciplinary family justice center to assist victims of domestic violence, officer-involved domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, stalking, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and human trafficking to ensure that victims of abuse are able to access all needed services in one location in order to enhance victim safety, increase offender accountability, and improve access to services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, and human trafficking. Family justice centers, if established in a city, county, or city and county, may include community-based domestic violence, officer-involved domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, stalking, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and human trafficking agencies in partnership with survivors of violence and abuse in the planning and operations process of a family justice center, and may establish procedures for the ongoing input, feedback, and evaluation of the family justice center by survivors of violence and abuse and community-based crime victim service providers.
(b) For purposes of this title, the following terms have the following meanings:
(1) “Abuse” has the same meaning as set forth in Section 6203 of the Family Code.
(2) “Domestic violence” has the same meaning as set forth in Section 6211 of the Family Code.
(3) “Sexual assault” means an act or attempt made punishable by Section 220, 261, 261.5, 262, 264.1, 266c, 269, 285, 286, 288, 288.5, 288a, 289, or 647.6.
(4) “Elder abuse” means an act made punishable by Section 368.
(5) “Human trafficking” has the same meaning as set forth in Section 236.1.
(6) “Victim of crime,” “crime victim,” or “victim” means a victim of domestic violence, officer-involved domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, stalking, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, or human trafficking.
(c) For purposes of this title, family justice centers shall be defined as multiagency, multidisciplinary service centers where public and private agencies assign staff members on a full-time or part-time basis in order to provide services to victims crime from one location in order to reduce the number of times victims must tell their story, reduce the number of places victims must go for help, and increase access to services and support for victims and their children. Staff members at a family justice center may be comprised of, but are not limited to, the following:
(1) Law enforcement personnel.
(2) Medical personnel.
(3) District attorneys and city attorneys.
(4) Victim-witness program personnel.
(5) Domestic violence shelter service staff.
(6) Community-based rape crisis, domestic violence, and human trafficking advocates.
(7) Social service agency staff members.
(8) Child welfare agency social workers.
(9) County health department staff.
(10) City or county welfare and public assistance workers.
(11) Nonprofit agency counseling professionals.
(12) Civil legal service providers.
(13) Supervised volunteers from partner agencies.
(14) Other professionals providing services.
(d) Victims of crime shall not be required to participate in the criminal justice system or cooperate with law enforcement in order to receive counseling, medical care, or other services at a family justice center.
(e) Victims of crime should not be denied services solely on the grounds of criminal history. No criminal history search should be conducted during a client intake process at a center as a condition of receiving services within a center or without the victim’s consent.

(f) Each family justice center shall develop policies and procedures to ensure coordinated services are provided to victims and enhance the safety of victims and professionals at a center, in collaboration with local community-based crime victim service providers and local survivors of violence and abuse who may participate in survivor-centered support or advocacy groups affiliated with a family justice center. All centers should maintain a formal client feedback, complaint, and input process to address client concerns about services provided or the conduct of any family justice center professionals, agency partners, or volunteers providing services in a family justice center.

(g) Each family justice center shall maintain an informed client consent policy in order to authorize the sharing of confidential, privileged, or protected information among individuals or agencies working within a center. The policy should be developed in collaboration with local community-based crime victim service providers and local survivors of violence and abuse who may participate in survivor-centered support or advocacy groups affiliated with the family justice center. However, at no time should a victim be required to sign a client consent form to share information in order to access services. The informed consent procedures shall be in compliance with all state and federal laws protecting the confidentiality of the types of information and documents that may be in a victim’s file, including, but not limited to, medical and legal records.

(h) A victim’s consent to share information pursuant to the client consent policy shall not be construed as a waiver of confidentiality or any privilege held by the victim or family justice center professionals.
13752.
Each family justice center established pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 13750 shall maintain a formal training program with mandatory training for all staff members, volunteers, and agency professionals of not less than eight hours per year on subjects including, but not limited to, confidentiality, information sharing, risk assessment, safety planning, victim advocacy, and high-risk case response.

Discovery health to offer FREE re-constructive surgery for domestic violence victims

2011-04-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

Survivors In Action is thrilled to announce again today that Discovery Health is offering FREE re-constructive surgery to domestic violence victims again!

We first learned of Discovery Health after Lily Morales reached out to the NCADV National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and was ignored Maria DiBari founder of Tri-County Crisis Center in New York and Survivors In Action took action to ensure that Lily was not left behind launching "Project Lily". Luckily months after Discovery Health accepted Lily a blessing since she had all but given up hope after NCADV ignored her requests.

Recall Project Lily: http://4survivors.blogspot.com/2010/07/discovery-health-helping-lily.html

By Maria DiBari
Founder, Tri-County Crisis Center New York

Lily Morales in NYC reached out to me last year in need of assistance and could not get help from the resources available and was in need of reconstructive surgery due to abuse. After teaming up with Survivors in Action, both SIA and I helped Lily get the surgeries she needed and sent her to the Discovery Channel for help after the NCADV failed to assist her in a timely manner. This woman was given free, cosmetic, dental and reconstructive surgery by Discovery Health and we are glad to see she is living a new life after the transformation.

Discovery Fit and Health is looking for survivors who have sustained facial injuries resulting from domestic violence or violent crimes for the documentary series FACING TRAUMA.

Facing Trauma follows Dual Board Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Andrew Jacono as he helps put back together the faces and lives of people who have been tragically and visibly scarred by violence and are struggling to move forward.

Dr. Jacono's expert reconstructive treatment will be provided FREE for the benefit of the survivor.

If you or someone you know could be a potential candidate please send a summary of the story to facingtrauma@gmail.com and include the following information:

1.Your Full Name

2.Telephone number and/or email address

3.City/State

Outspoken domestic violence victim creates crisis center

2011-04-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Brave domestic violence survivor continues to strive to help serve victims in need who are being left behind in New York and throughout the U.S.!

Nice work Maria DiBari, Alyssa Kogon and Jackie Axt for helping to ensure "no victim is left behind".- Alexis A. Moore founder Survivors In Action

Outspoken domestic violence victim creates crisis center

BEACON New York – Maria DiBari, a domestic violence survivor from Dutchess County who has been critical of the existing network of counseling services, has created her own not-for-profit service. The Tri-County Crisis Center in Beacon will provide counseling for battered women in Dutchess, Orange and Putnam counties.

DiBari said she wants to fill a void that she perceives exists in the current counseling efforts.

“I was a victim; the best way to know how one’s services are working is through their customers and I was a customer, and I can say as a customer or a victim of domestic violence, I know,” she said. “And also after living in many counties in New York that the services, yes, are available, but they are very hard to actually tap into as a victim.”

An early supporter and member of her advisory council is Jacqueline Axt of Congers, whose sister was Linda Riccardulli, who was murdered by her husband in their Hyde Park home before he took his own life.

“It has been kind of my goal in honor of my sister to help make some changes in the laws as well as try to find a way to help people when they are in this type of situation to get help and understand how the system works,” she said.

There are also the traditional counseling services provided by a number of agencies in each Hudson Valley county.

Tri-county Crisis Center may be reached at info@tricountycrisiscenter.org .

2011-04-28T16:35:00.001-07:00

Open publication - Free publishing

Jacqueline Axt Sister of Linda Axt Riccardulli speaks out regarding Dutchess County New York Legislators using domestic violence victim memory for their own political agenda

2011-04-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

Special thank you to Jackie Axt the loving sister of Linda Axt- Riccardulli whose life was cut short by domestic violence in Dutchess County New York this past year. Her efforts to honor her sisters memory by helping to reform domestic violence laws and victim resources shall never be forgotten.

Recently, I've been reading about all of the available services for domestic violence assistance in Dutchess County. I cannot help but point out how this "model" for DV response has failed so many people.

I'd like to set a few things straight. My sister, Linda Riccardulli, was not helped by Grace Smith House. She did not get directed to a Domestic Violence Court in Dutchess County. She was not assigned a DV Divorce Lawyer who would have given her appropriate council. She and her children were not protected by the "Order of Protection" that was given to them. Her estranged husband who was a danger to himself and others was released from jail and what she was given was 40 minutes notice that he was out. That was the "model" that did not save Linda's life last summer, the same model I keep reading about.

I can not correlate the military level response to the woman who was being evicted from her home, to the lack of response that Linda encountered in Dutchess County when she brought her multiple OP violations to her lawyers, the DA and Police, and ultimately as she lay bleeding in her home on the night she lost her life.

I really cannot fathom the reluctance that the advocates I work with, Maria DiBari and Alyssa Kogon have encountered trying to offer solutions to the problems. Not far fetched solutions or unproven theories. These are solutions that have been proven effective in other places. Ideas that have been dismissed or ignored, and in some instances, many months later, are being touted as their own.

As previously mentioned, the press conference we held in September for "Linda's Laws" was not attended by anyone from any DV assistance group even though they were all invited.

The latest slap in the face was the Committee hearing on April 7th. You can see for yourself how the discussion of the GPS proposal was mentioned and tabled and the reaction from the Angela Friesland -R who seemed annoyed that it was even being brought up. I wrote a letter to the Legislature/Advisory Committee regarding my feelings from a victims point of view. (letter attached below)

I got three responses (Thank you!) out of 25 people in the Legislature. Most notably , I received no response from Leah Feldman who is the Project Coordinator of the Universal Response to Domestic Violence. The most resounding response I got was the Web Cast taken down the day after my letter was received by the Legislature. Only after complaints from the public, the Webcast was put back up and a letter from the Advisory Committee went out to appease those concerned and angered about the Legislature Meeting.

Stop using my sister as a political pawn. I am appalled that these groups keep invoking Linda's name when I know first hand that they did not help her before her death, nor have they supported or even acknowledged the family in the wake of her murder.

ATTACHMENT LETTER TO LEGISLATURE 4-14-11

County Legislature,

I would like to thank those Legislators in Dutchess County that value saving the lives of domestic violence victims in the community and were willing to speak out, along with the unpaid advocates in the county.

However, I'm sorry that the value of saving lives for some is not as obvious as the value of a free ice machine.

I am shocked and appalled by what occurred in the committee meeting on April 7th. it is unbelievable that the committee was so quick to table the GPS proposal with nothing more than a vague "We're looking into it" from the Advisory Committee Liaison. That Leah Feldman, the Project Coordinator for the Universal Response for Domestic Violence had nothing to say on the matter is baffling.

Furthermore, my family and I are offended by the callus comments made by Legislator Angela Flesland as though it was out of line to bring this proposal to the meeting. My sister, Linda Riccardulli, is dead, and other families in addition to my own have been destroyed by homicides related to DV since. The Committee is not working fast enough where domestic violence is concerned. The offenders were all out on bail. Victims go unprotected. The GPS would have saved lives, and as part of a solution deserves discussion, not distain. You must remember we are dealing with lives, not political agendas.

Jacqueline Axt

Congers, NY

Sister of Linda Axt Riccardulli

7-18-1963 to 7-29-2010

Mother, Daughter, Sister, Friend

Lost to Domestic Violence

Mark Zuckerberg’s stalking case can be a triumph for stalking victims around the world

2011-04-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

California Safe At Home Address Confidentiality Program Update 2011; victims and victim service providers urged to continue to use extreme caution and to be informed since program not full proof

2011-04-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

California Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) updates for 2011 available.

Victims and Victim Service Providers urged to continue to use caution and care since program is a tool for victims facing life or death circumstances.

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

12 Tips to protect yourself from cyberstalking and cyberbullying

2011-04-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

12 Tips To Protect Yourself From Cyberstalking
Take the Time To Implement These Key Self-Defense Moves
From Alexis A. Moore for About.com Women's Issues

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

Maria DiBari and Alyssa Kogon discuss Tri-County Crisis Center with Lisa O.

2011-04-15T09:16:00.001-07:00

The Lisa O. Show April 14,2011 by Lisa Odendahl on Mixcloud

Dutchess County New York Domestic Violence Advocates paid to cyberstalk?

2011-04-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

Dutchess County domestic violence service providers paid to cyberstalk?
Dutchess County domestic violence service providers paid to surf the net make anonymous posts while victims pleas for help go unanswered...

By Maria DiBari
Executive Director Tri-County Crisis Center
Volunteer Domestic Violence Victim Advocate
Concerned about what is going on in Dutchess e-mail Maria DiBari directly via her blog 4Survivors.blogspot.com
"No victim left behind"

I am a volunteer victim advocate. I do this for free. I do this on my free time. I advocate for victims only, and I do this because I know what it is like to be frightened, unable to get assistance, and in fear of my life. I'm dedicated to this cause, to victims, because they are horribly under-represented in communities, across states, and around the world. I also work full-time in the Science field.

What completely disturbs me as both a victim of domestic violence and an advocate is this: Our paid advocates spending time during business hours criticizing me, leaving strange, anonymous comments on my site, and researching my blog for hours at a time during the work day instead of helping victims overcome abuse.

I rarely put people on display for this, but today I will. We are having a serious problem in Dutchess County with domestic violence homicide and I am serious in solving the problems in this community and in others. When I notice public domestic violence leaders in this community spending entire work days on my blog, it highly disturbs and frightens me. I will not mention this woman's name here. I will keep that information confidential, but I will post her search history below and use it as an example of how some of the paid advocates are using their work days. Below is a sample of a Dutchess County domestic violence advocate and leader searching my website for hours on end during business hours:

Paetec Communications (63.139.130.10) [Label IP Address]

Poughkeepsie, New York, United States

Date Time Type WebPage

11th April 2011 12:50:24 Page View www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCAQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2F4survivors.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fpress-conference-with-alyssa-kogon-and.html&rct=j&q=maria%20dibari%20domestic%20violence&ei=RTGjTdeYMqbe0QGcz93dDg&usg=AFQjCNHyKAJ-9Lmw4nuZxrHJhDzZ-wOE-w4survivors.blogspot.com/2010/09/press-conference-with-alyssa-kogon-and.html

11th April 2011 12:50:26 Page View 4survivors.blogspot.com/2010/09/press-conference-with-alyssa-kogon-and.html4survivors.blogspot.com/

11th April 2011 12:55:51 Exit Link https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=6394926884608020889&postID=7426507427489465543&isPopup=true

11th April 2011 12:56:00 Exit Link https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=6394926884608020889&postID=4463281833456581371&isPopup=true

11th April 2011 16:22:01 Page View No referring link
www.4survivors.blogspot.com/

11th April 2011 16:23:39 Page View www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CCAQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.4survivors.blogspot.com%2F&rct=j&q=survivor%20blog%20maria%20dibari&ei=Q2OjTdbyMPO90QGXq9mGBQ&usg=AFQjCNH0FAK0NzMMm79EgFbOczMtxkvHGg
www.4survivors.blogspot.com/

11th April 2011 16:24:32 Page View No referring link
www.4survivors.blogspot.com/

11th April 2011 16:30:36 Exit Link https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=6394926884608020889&postID=1056175626387882476&isPopup=true

11th April 2011 16:31:24 Page View www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CCAQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.4survivors.blogspot.com%2F&rct=j&q=survivor%20blog%20maria%20dibari&ei=Q2OjTdbyMPO90QGXq9mGBQ&usg=AFQjCNH0FAK0NzMMm79EgFbOczMtxkvHGg
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Posted by Maria DiBari at 1:44 PM

Important tips to safeguard your home before you leave on vacation

2011-04-05T11:53:00.001-07:00

Safeguarding your home before you leave for vacation
By Selena Dehne

After returning home from a fabulous vacation, the last thing you’ll want to experience is the aftermath of a break-in that occurred while you were out of town. Such a dilemma can be heartbreaking and debilitating, which is why it’s so important that before you pack your bags and hit the road, you first take action to safeguard your home and deter would-be thieves from breaking into it.

Here are several tips for keeping your home and belongings secure while you’re out of town and having the time of your life!

Never, ever, mention your travel plans on the Internet.
No matter how excited you are about your trip, the Internet is not the appropriate place to broadcast your enthusiasm.

Too often, people post messages and pictures that publicize that they’ll be away from home for several days. According to Alexis A. Moore, president and founder of Survivors in Action, mistakes like this “invite predators to your home.”

Instead of using social media and blogs to discuss your trip before you leave, wait until after you are back to post pictures from the trip and comments about how wonderful it was.

Maintain the appearance that your house is occupied, even when it’s not.
If potential thieves are under the impression that someone is staying in your home, they’re much less likely to break into it or snoop around the house.

Jonathan Frase, president of Frase Protection, Inc., a Memphis-based security and fire monitoring company, and Greg Polley, vice president of sales and marketing for Frase Protection, say that lighting is an important component in this strategy. “Invest in timers for lamps and porch lights. You can purchase alternating timed switches at the hardware store, which enable you to set varying times for your lights to switch on and off,” they explain.

Another tip Frase and Polley offer is to have someone stay at your house at night or stop by your house at least once a day to pick up your mail. If this is cost-prohibitive for your budget, Frase and Polley say the second best option is to have the post office hold your mail temporarily.

Philip Farina, CPP, CLSD, a personal security expert with Farina and Associates, Ltd., suggests leaving a car parked in your driveway rather than inside the garage while you’re gone. “This will also give the impression that someone is at home,” he explains.

Ask people you trust to keep an eye on your home for you.
Shyness or embarrassment shouldn’t prevent you from reaching out to others for help in looking after your home. A few days before you leave for vacation, Frase and Polley encourage you to notify your local police department about your plans. “Many police departments will drive by and check your house at least once a day if you inform them of your out-of-town dates. Some even have a website feature where all you have to do is fill out a form to let them know.”

Another smart strategy is to ask a trustworthy neighbor for a few favors while you’re out of town. “Ask them to set aside any packages or mail so that things are not piling up on your doorstop. Have them be your eyes and ears,” says Moore.

TRI-COUNTY CRISIS CENTER NEW YORK: Alyssa Kogon and Maria DiBari taking action to ensure no vcitim is left behind

2011-04-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks to actor and director David Schwimmer for promoting awareness of sexual predators and the risk to youth of all ages

2011-03-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

Special thanks and appreciation from Survivors In Action to actor and director David Schwimmer for making the film "Trust" possible.

As a national non-profit crime victims advocacy organization, Survivors In Action recognizes the difficulties of making a film like Trust possible in the main stream film industry of today and special thanks to Mr. Schwimmer for his dedication to this cause and for making this film possible.

Exposing the growing number of on-line predators lurking below the radar today, the harsh realities faced by parent's who are trying to keep their children safe and highlighting the realities faced by those victimized by rape and sexual assault is going to help save lives and is desperately needed.

Mr. Schwimmer we applaud your efforts and the efforts of the Rape Foundation here in California.

We are grateful for your efforts to help protect chlildren and educate adults of the devastating impact rape and sexual assault has upon our most precious resource- our children.

We thank you and all who were involved in this project for helping to ensure that "no victim is left behind".

Protect yourself from Cyberstalking

2011-03-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

12 Tips To Protect Yourself From Cyberstalking
Take the Time To Implement These Key Self-Defense Moves
From Alexis A. Moore for About.com Women's Issues

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

Dutchess County residents Maria DiBari and Alyssa Kogon will be starting the first Tri-County Crisis Center in New York

2011-03-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Poughkeepsie, New York, United States of America
March 24,2011
--

In response to multiple domestic violence homicides in Dutchess County and the Hudson Valley in the last year, Dutchess County residents Maria DiBari and Alyssa Kogon will be starting the first Tri-County Crisis Center in New York. The Center will focus on assisting three counties: Dutchess, Putnam and Orange. This Crisis Center will expand upon and enhance the current resources in place in all three counties and will be located in Dutchess County.

Many victims of violence today are struggling to navigate through the system after reaching out for help, and many fall through the cracks and are left behind. Victims of domestic violence are in need of free legal representation, counseling, safety planning, and advocacy. The Tri-County Crisis Center will be modeled after progressive Centers around the US that are trying to go above and beyond to help victims from start to finish and provide assistance and follow-up.

As a victim of violence herself, Maria DiBari is aware of the struggle to survive in an abusive situation with resources that are not adequate.

“This Center will address the needs of victims today and focus on building resources that are lacking in the community. A future project of the Crisis Center will be to build a High Risk Response Team for high-risk domestic violence cases.” says DiBari.

The Tri-County Crisis Center will be in need of community support and will be accepting donations. Your donations will help ensure the success and growth of this Center. Presently, donations can be given directly to our fiscal sponsor, Survivors in Action at www.survivorsinaction.com.

##

What’s the difference between ‘creepy’ behaviour and ‘stalking’? UK Stalking Awareness Campaign

2011-03-24T08:24:00.000-07:00

A powerful message from our friends in the United Kingdom promoting Stalking Awareness!

What’s the difference between ‘creepy’ behaviour and ‘stalking’?

More than 1 million women and 900,000 men report being stalked in the UK every year.* Despite the seriousness of the crime, there’s a huge problem of under-reporting - putting lives at risk. **Today the charity Network for Surviving Stalking launches a campaign to encourage people to identify stalking and take it seriously.

Trust Your Instinct features 2 short films. A new web-site www.trustyourinstinct.org helps people assess for themselves whether they’re being stalked.

The film features a young woman asking a friend whether ‘she should be worried’ about the behaviour of a man. “He knows I’m not interested” she says but he is still sending her flowers, gifts and she worries he’s been outside her house.

“The film doesn’t really use the word ‘stalking’ and that’s deliberate” says Network for Surviving Stalking Chief Executive Alexis Bowater “at the start, people don’t tend to think of this sort of behaviour as stalking. We think stalkers are sinister figures – like in films. In reality stalkers can be ex-partners; friends or people you know. Even though our instinct tells us the behaviour is ‘wrong’ we tend to make excuses and play it down.”

www.trustyourinstinct.org features a ‘Stalking Quiz’ (attached below) created by Chartered Forensic Psychologist and criminal profiler Dr Lorraine Sheridan. “Stalking can be death by a thousand cuts. It’s often many separate incidents – the quiz will help people to see the ‘bigger picture’. If they’re worried they can print it off and take it to the police.”

The campaign web-site also features tips on how to report stalking to the police. The guide is written by former BBC Crime Watch presenter and metropolitan police officer

Jacqui Hames, “The police have made mistakes investigating stalking cases in the past. It’s a difficult crime to police and we want to help victims to help officers – it’s the best way for everyone to get the most positive outcome to a situation.”

Alexis Bowater wants Trust Your Instinct to change attitudes across the board. “So often we don’t trust our own instinct. People make us feel uncomfortable, threatened and even frightened – our instinct is our subconscious warning us we’re in danger but we’ve been conditioned to ignore it – laugh it off; hope the problem goes away. It’s time to change. You have to start listening to your instinct – it could save your life.”

Notes for the Editor
** The British Crime Survey 2006
*77% of stalking victims don’t report the situation until over 100 incidents have occurred. (Sheridan & NSS 2009)

There are 2 short films available to use on your site.

To arrange interviews with NSS Chief Executive Alexis Bowater; forensic psychologist Dr Lorraine Sheridan and Jacqui Hames please text or phone 07970 792986 or email media@nss.org.uk

Court Will Decide whether Federal or D.C. Law Protects Stalking Victims from Employment Discrimination

2011-03-21T16:05:00.001-07:00

Organizations that support women,advocate for crime victims and that promote ending violence in the workplace need to sign on in support. E-mail Attorney Martin today!

PRESS RELEASE: March 20, 2011

Law Offices of Dawn V. Martin, LLC e-mail: dvmartinlaw@yahoo.com

(202) 408-7040; (703) 642-0207 website: www.dvmartinlaw.com

Court Will Decide whether Federal or D.C. Law Protects Stalking Victims from Employment Discrimination

Washington, D.C. – In Martin v. Howard University, local civil rights attorney Dawn Martin asks the U.S. Court of Appeals to hold that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and/or D.C. Human Rights Law protects a woman from being stalked in her workplace or being terminated for reporting it. Howard University has filed a Motion to Dismiss Martin’s appeal. The National Organization for Women (NOW) is supporting Martin’s appeal and urges additional women’s groups to join in its Amicus Brief. Howard opposes NOW’s participation.

When Martin was a Law Professor at Howard University, she was stalked by a delusional, homeless, serial campus stalker, Leonard Harrison. Harrison was searching for the physical embodiment of his "fantasy" wife -- a fictional female character in a book, written by the renowned Professor, Derrick Bell. Howard did not ban the stalker from Law School building, despite advice from the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department to do so and its own established Campus Police banning procedures. Further, Howard refused to renew Prof. Martin’s teaching contract. Martin sued, alleging sexual harassment/hostile work environment and retaliation. In 1999, the U.S. District for D.C. set precedent in Martin, holding that an employer can be held liable for the sexual harassment of an employee by a non-employee, if it knew or should have known of the harassment and failed to take reasonable steps to stop it. Martin v. Howard University , 1999 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 19516, 1999 WL 1295339 (DD.C. 1999)

In 2006, a jury agreed with Martin that Harrison ’s harassment did create a “hostile work environment” and that that Howard did not take reasonable steps to end it; however, the jury asked for a clearer legal definition of “sexual harassment.” The judge refused to provide it. Confused about the legal definition and Title VII coverage, the jurors concluded that Harrison ’s harassment of Prof. Martin was not based on her sex or sexual in nature. This meant that she was not “protected” by Title VII. Martin is appealing District Court Judge Hogan’s October 8, 2010 decision refusing to vacate the jury’s verdict. Martin is relying primarily on the Supreme Court’s January 26, 2009 decision in Crawford v. Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tenn. 129 S. Ct. 846, 853 (2009), for her argument that the interpretation of “protected activity” is a question of law for the Court – not a question of fact for the jury. Martin is also relying D.C. Human Rights Act cases that hold that the question of whether the plaintiff participated in “protected activity” is a legal question for the Courts, not a factual question for the jury. See McFarland v. George Washington University , 935 A.2d 337, 356 (D.C. App. 2007); Carter-Obayuna v. Howard University , 764 A.2d 779, 790-791 (D.C. App. 2001.

78% of stalking victims are women. 54% of female murder victims reported their stalkers to the police before being killed by them. “Many stalking victims are afraid to let their employers know that they are being stalked,” Martin said, “They are afraid of being fired. No woman should have to choose between her job and her safety.” In a 2009 documentary about the case, Kim Gandy, then, the President of NOW, explained why NOW took the lead in the Amicus Brief filed in an earlier appeal in this case. Gandy said: “We’ve had situations like this, where women, stalked in the workplace, were fired, or let go, because they were stalked.” See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxyzwRGYIgA. Current NOW President, Terry O’Neill, wrote: “We believe the Supreme Court's recent decision in Crawford v. Nashville supports the principle that it is up to the courts, not a jury, to say whether particular behavior is protected or prohibited by Title VII.” Martin and NOW are also urging an amendment to Title VII that would expressly protect victims of stalking and domestic violence against employment discrimination and retaliation for reporting stalking in the workplace. For more details see, e.g.,

www.dvmartinlaw.com/MartinvHowardU;http://www.womensenews.org/story/crime-policylegislation/110110/stalking-victim-presses-employment-protection; http://vimeo.com/18706532; Good Morning America http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/erin-andrews-leads-stalking-round-table/story?id=11322694 (Martin interviewed by journalist Erin Andrews, also stalked by a stranger while working.)

Dawn V. Martin, Esquire
Law Offices of Dawn V. Martin, LLC
1725 I Street, N.W., Suite 300
Washington, D.C 20006
(202) 408-7040 D.C. phone
(703) 642-0207 home office
(703) 642-0208 facsimile
DVMARTINLAW@yahoo.com
www.dvmartinlaw.com

Specializing in employment discrimination, civil rights and tort law
"Working for Justice in the World"

DV REFORM: Domestic violence resource and public policy reform needed in 2011

2011-03-21T09:01:00.001-07:00

Domestic violence victims deserve to have a resource system that puts their needs first. The current system is too top heavy and victims of domestic violence are being neglected while the national DV organizations become more bloated and ineffectual. We would like to see our efforts in DV reform result in a nationwide resource system that better serves the victims. To make that happen, we want to see the following changes:

*There is no reason for having two separate national DV organizations. The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) should be merged into one body. This will eliminate a great deal of bureaucratic waste.

*Non-essential services should be cut, putting the focus instead on funding shelters and services that assist victims directly.

*Increased emphasis needs to be put on the recruiting, screening, and training of more volunteers who can work with victims one-on-one. Having more volunteer support means that fewer paid staffers will be necessary, thus freeing up more funds to help victims.

*Every state must have shelters with adequate funding so that they can house the men, women, and children who are in need of these services.

*We should have lawyers and advocates (both volunteer and paid) available in every county of every state to assist domestic abuse victims through the legal process.

*The government needs to audit the federal grants and other funds that domestic violence organizations receive to determine how these funds are being used and to ensure accountability.

*We advocate the creation of a Federal Domestic Violence Oversight Committee to oversee state and federally funded domestic violence organizations, and to provide victims a place to document their experiences and file complaints.

Taking these steps would bring us closer to having the best possible resource system in place to aid victims of domestic violence.

Domestic Violence death toll rises in Hudson Valley New York call to action by Maria DiBari violence expert and consultant

2011-03-18T12:43:00.000-07:00

OPINION: A solution for domestic violence homicide in NYS
Friday, March 18, 2011
By Maria DiBari

Domestic homicides have been rampant in Dutchess County in the last year. We have lost four women, one unborn child and one officer. This county has been devastated by domestic violence and we need to re-examine the current system and create a coordinated community response so victims of abuse are protected, offenders are held accountable and deaths are prevented.

Many of these homicides have something in common. The perpetrators are often jailed, but then released on low bail and given freedom while their victims remain vulnerable.

Although shelters may be available to victims, domestic violence cases are unique and complicated. Many victims stay in the family home in fear of retaliation, or in fear of losing child custody; others stay because of their obligations to mortgage payments, or their responsibility to their career.

The pathway out isn’t always an easy one to walk. By allowing perpetrators their freedom after a violent offense, or after the violation of a restraining order, we assume the victim will escape to a shelter, and that the shelter isn’t at capacity.

We should recall why shelters were set up in the first place. Shelters were created to save abused women when the courts did not, or would not, hold the offender accountable for abuse. Since we have moved past a time when the court system didn’t recognize domestic violence as a crime, it is time we expand upon relying on emergency shelters as our only safety net for a victim of abuse.

After the murder of Linda Riccardulli of Hyde Park in 2010, Alyssa Kogon and I proposed “Linda’s Law” for New York State. I have since revised this bill to include a location-based tracking system and lethality assessment tools. It is being reviewed by state officials and can be viewed at www.lindaslawnys.wordpress.com.

Currently, our state does not utilize lethality assessment tools. These assessments are questionnaires that are administered to victims by first responders at crime scenes. They are meant to predict high-risk cases and can be used in conjunction with location-based tracking devices. But because these tools aren’t utilized, law enforcement cannot accurately predict risk. The inability to predict risk leads to domestic homicide.

The location-based tracking system requires that a perpetrator wear an ankle bracelet, which is used to track and notify victims and law enforcement if the perpetrator is outside the designated safety zone and is violating a restraining order. Currently, GPS legislation has been introduced but not passed in New York.

According to www.cindysmemorial.org, a website that tracks national progress on GPS legislation, 16 states are already using this technology for domestic batterers. With overcrowded jails, high incarceration costs and an increase in domestic homicide, location-based tracking devices seem to be an invaluable asset for victims, law enforcement and the courts.

Surprisingly, there are domestic violence organizations, such as the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence, that outwardly oppose GPS monitoring and view it as a “quick fix, one-size-fits-all approach,” despite the fact that many victims are in need of and are demanding this technology.

In spite of the opposition, GPS monitoring has a 100% success rate in preventing death, according to GPS Monitoring Solutions in California, and is little to no cost to the taxpayer.

An added benefit to location-based tracking is that it provides indisputable evidence that a restraining order was or was not violated, which eliminates false allegations from being made against the defendant, thereby protecting the rights of the accused.

There is one community that can be considered a model for domestic violence response, the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center Inc. in Newburyport, Massachusetts. This center strives to protect victims and tries to keep them out of shelters by creating a safety zone for them as an alternative option to hiding, and incorporates lethality assessments and GPS technology in their prevention plan.

The Crisis Center presents a new model, one that creates a coordinated community response effort that involves victim advocates, law enforcement and the courts.

A model for domestic violence response is a community that doesn’t tolerate domestic homicide. Since the founding of this Crisis Center and its High Risk Response Team, there have been no intimate partner deaths in this community. This is a working model and one that New York State should be following, and Dutchess County should lead as an example.

Domestic homicide and domestic violence can be prevented. We have the tools available to guard victims of abuse and track offenders, and we have programs in other communities that we can learn from and use as a resource.

As a state, the initial step should be to enact location-based tracking system legislation for domestic violence cases in Family and Criminal Courts. The second step should be enforcing this legislation by starting a location-based tracking pilot operation in Dutchess County.

This seems to be a prevention plan worth implementing, with domestic violence funds being reworked and reallocated toward this project. By using the tools and resources available to us, we can prevent domestic homicide by strengthening the network of first responders, providing more accurate information to the courts, improving visibility for law enforcement, and protecting victims that are denied shelter after reaching out for help.

About author: Maria DiBari is a domestic violence expert, advocate and consultant. She is a survivor of domestic violence who has been advocating for domestic violence reform since 2008. More can be found at www.4survivors.blogspot.com. Respond to this column at editorial@thehudsonvalleynews.com.

#links

2011-03-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

#links

Protections for women stalked in worklplace

2011-03-18T08:46:00.001-07:00

Law Offices of Dawn V. Martin, LLC
e-mail: dvmartinlaw@yahoo.com

(202) 408-7040; (703) 642-0207
website: www.dvmartinlaw.com

Washington, D.C. – January is National Stalking Awareness Month -- a particularly appropriate time for Martin v. Howard University to before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. Attorney Dawn Martin is asking the Court to hold that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects a woman against employment discrimination if she reports sexual harassment that is characterized by the police as “stalking” in her workplace.

78% of stalking victims are women. 54% of female murder victims reported their stalkers to the police before being killed by them. “Many stalking victims are afraid to let their employers know that they are being stalked,” Martin said, “They are afraid of being fired. No woman should have to choose between her job and her safety.” In a 2009 documentary about the case, Kim Gandy, then, the President of the National Organization for Women (NOW), explained why NOW took the lead in the Amicus Brief filed in an earlier appeal in this case. Gandy said this case is “very important” to issues that NOW has worked on for years. “We’ve had situations like this, where women, stalked in the workplace, were fired, or let go, because they were stalked.” See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxyzwRGYIgA. Martin is seeking additional women’s groups and victim’s advocacy groups to join in an Amicus Brief in her current appeal. She is also urging an amendment to Title VII that would expressly protect victims of stalking and domestic violence against employment discrimination.

When Martin was a Law Professor at Howard University, she was stalked by a delusional, homeless, serial campus stalker, Leonard Harrison. Harrison was searching for the physical embodiment of his "fantasy" wife -- a fictional female character in a book, written by the renowned Professor, Derrick Bell. Howard did not ban the stalker from Law School building, despite advice from the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department to do so and its own established Campus Police banning procedures. Further, Howard refused to renew Prof. Martin’s teaching contract. Martin sued, alleging sexual harassment/hostile work environment and retaliation. In 1999, the U.S. District for D.C. set precedent in Martin, holding that an employer can be held liable for the sexual harassment of an employee by a non-employee, if it knew or should have known of the harassment and failed to take reasonable steps to stop it. Martin v. Howard University. 1999 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 19516, 1999 WL 1295339 (DD.C. 1999)

In 2006, a jury agreed with Prof. Martin that Harrison’s harassment did create a “hostile work environment” and that that Howard did not take reasonable steps to end it; however, the jury asked for a clearer legal definition of “sexual harassment.” The judge refused to provide it. Confused about the legal definition and Title VII coverage, the jurors concluded that Harrison’s harassment of Prof. Martin was not based on her sex or sexual in nature. This meant that she was not “protected” by Title VII. Martin is appealing District Court Judge Hogan’s October 8, 2010 decision refusing her motion for a new trial. Martin is relying primarily on the Supreme Court’s January 26, 2009 decision in Crawford v. Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tenn. 129 S. Ct. 846, 853 (2009), for her argument that the interpretation of “protected activity” is a question of law for the Court – not a question of fact for the jury. Martin is also relying D.C. Human Rights Act cases that hold that the question of whether the plaintiff participated in “protected activity” is a legal question for the Courts, not a factual question for the jury. See McFarland v. George Washington University, 935 A.2d 337, 356 (D.C. App. 2007); Carter-Obayuna v. Howard University, 764 A.2d 779, 790-791 (D.C. App. 2001.

For more details see, e.g., www.dvmartinlaw.com/MartinvHowardU; http://www.womensenews.org/story/crime-policylegislation/110110/stalking-victim-presses-employment-protection; http://vimeo.com/18706532; Good Morning America http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/erin-andrews-leads-stalking-round-table/story?id=11322694 (Martin interviewed by journalist Erin Andrews, also stalked by a stranger while working)

Dawn V. Martin, Esquire
Law Offices of Dawn V. Martin, LLC
1725 I Street, N.W., Suite 300
Washington, D.C 20006
(202) 408-7040 D.C. phone
(703) 642-0207 home office
(703) 642-0208 facsimile
DVMARTINLAW@yahoo.com
www.dvmartinlaw.com

Specializing in employment discrimination, civil rights and tort law
"Working for Justice in the World"

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Domestic violence and stalking victims need leadership that will listen

2011-03-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

Domestic violence and stalking victims need leadership that will listen.

1.3 million are victimized by domestic violence each year, yet victims are finding it more and more difficult to get the support that they desperately need. Funding continues to be allocated to outdated programs and policies that are out of touch with the needs of victims today. Shelters continue to turn away battered victims and their children, and stalking victims have no resource at all. The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) are not taking the steps necessary to reform resources and public policy to ensure that no victim is left behind.

It is time for the leadership that directs the funding and public policy to be held accountable for their actions. Today, victims and survivors of domestic violence and stalking are demanding the leadership within the national and state domestic violence organizations listen to their pleas and support DV REFORM or get out of the way.

“We are seeking leadership that will listen and put the needs of victims first instead of their own agendas and egos,” says Alexis A. Moore, founder of Survivors In Action (SIA). The non-profits that are providing the direct services and support to victims need the support of the leadership at the national level, and they are not getting that today. More often than not it is common for the NCADV and NNEDV to block public policy or resource reform that is vital to victims of today and this has to end.

Survivors In Action has been leading the movement known as DV REFORM since 2009, when Moore first spoke with the newly appointed White House Advisor for Violence Against Women and requested her assistance and support to improve domestic violence and stalking victim resources in the 21st century. After being told that Ms. Moore would need to provide evidence that would support the need for reform, Survivors In Action began to connect and collaborate with victims, survivors, and family members of abuse and stalking victims from around the nation.

There is a groundswell of support for domestic violence resource reform, but those fighting for DV REFORM are finding a disconnect between national leadership and the local non-profits who are dealing with the victims firsthand. It is the NNEDV and NCADV that the media, private donors, and government officials turn to for advice and input when directing funding and public policy regarding domestic violence and stalking victim resources and laws. These two organizations hold the purse strings and the ability to make all of the decisions while the local shelters and domestic violence organizations are left to do all of the work without any input.

There has to be a meeting of the minds -- the NNEDV and NCADV can’t continue to direct public policy without any accountability measures in place. Survivors in Action believes that they need to cut out the bureaucracy (do we really need two national organizations?) and start directing funding to shelters and to organizations that support victims directly. SIA acknowledges that this may mean that there will need to be more volunteer support and fewer paid staffers, and it certainly means that there should be fewer paid lobbyists. But the money should be going straight to victim support services, where it is most needed.

Domestic violence and stalking are far too often situations of life or death for victims. Leadership that listens is vital in order to prevent domestic violence and ensure victims have the resources they need to become survivors. New leadership and a new organizational structure that better serves the victims of domestic violence are needed now.

Small non-profits and many volunteers from across the U.S. are doing all of the "heavy-lifting" and providing services to abuse and stalking victims without government resources and without input on public policy issues. This must end in 2011.

If you are a victim of domestic violence who would like to nominate a shelter or domestic violence advocate who has done the right thing and put the needs of victims first e-mail Info@SurvivorsInAction.com SIA is helping to ensure funding is allocated to organizations and advocates that put victims needs first.

SOURCES
U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics, “Criminal Victimization, 2005,” September 2006.
Violence Against Women in the United States. 2003. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Centers for Injury Prevention and Control. Atlanta, GA.
U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics, “Intimate Partner Violence in the United States,” December 2006.Costs of Intimate Partner

How to Keep Your Teen Safe on Spring Break | eHow.co.uk

2011-03-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

How to Keep Your Teen Safe on Spring Break
By Lesley Henton, an eHow Contributor

Spring break is supposed to be a week of fun and relaxation for students, a well-deserved vacation from the rigors of school and chores. Unfortunately for some teens and their parents, spring break can become a nightmare.

Consider a Chaperone
Chaperoned spring break trips are the best way to ensure your child has a safe experience -- especially if she has broken your trust or shown poor judgment in the past.

"If the teen has been a knucklehead the 365 days prior to spring break, what makes you think that they will wake up on the morning of spring break and be brain surgeons?" said Dr. John Mayer, clinical psychologist and author of "Family Fit: Find Your Balance."

Many companies offer supervised trips for students, and some parents go so far as to hire chaperones to go along. You might consider these options if they're within your budget. If they're not, you must act as the chaperone by preparing your teen before the trip and monitoring her activities during her stay. This is crucial not only to keep your teen safe but also to avoid legal troubles for yourself.

"The new spirit of the courts is to make parents responsible for their children's behavior," Mayer said. This means if your underage child breaks the law, you could be held criminally liable.

"Don't try to be a cool parent," Mayer said. "Being cool doesn't mean encouraging your child and their friends to drink or act out sexually. Don't support negative behaviors."

Alternative Spring Break Options
Many teens are finding alternative ways to enjoy spring break that have nothing to do with wild parties and drinking. An alternative spring break can be fun, rewarding and best of all, safe.

Volunteering

Organizations such as the United Way, schools like Stanford University and many churches have alternative spring break programs that offer chaperoned trips. Participants help clean up after natural disasters and participate in other humanitarian efforts. Trips within the U.S. and abroad can cost less than a typical party getaway.

Family Trip

Take a family trip to an amusement park, resort or national park. Consider taking your teen's friends along so she can have the fun of traveling with friends along with the safety of your supervision.

Stay Home

There can be spring break fun right in your own backyard. Let your teen throw a supervised spring break bash at your house. Trips to the mall, the local pool or beach and sleepovers will make for happy teens and parents.
Have a Safety Plan

Whether the trip is chaperoned or not, "Don't let your teen go anywhere until you've developed a safety plan," said Alexis A. Moore, founder of the crime victims' advocacy group Survivors in Action. Moore is also an author and contributor to more than 10 law enforcement training manuals, textbooks and nonfiction books, including "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying."

Moore suggests you develop the plan together with your teen and talk about it frequently. "Put it down on paper, have the teen agree to the terms and sign it no different than a contract," she said. "Have provisions for what will happen if the teen violates the terms of the agreement."

Help Make the Arrangements and Do Your Research
Do your homework. "Eagerly help with reservations and arrangements," Mayer said. "If you're involved in the planning, then you're more in control."

Collect contact information for the hotel or resort, the chaperones and friends who are traveling with your teen, the local authorities and the nearest hospital. If he's traveling out of the country, know the phone number and location of the nearest U.S. Embassy.

Find out everything you can about where he's going: Where are the high-crime areas? What areas or establishments should be avoided? What are the laws regarding alcohol and drug use? What should you do if he is arrested? If there's a language barrier, who can act as your translator? Learn as much as you can because the more you know ahead of time, the quicker you can act if something unexpected happens.

Mayer suggests you coordinate with other parents whose kids are going on the trip so it's a team effort.

Have a Sit-Down
Talk with your teen about the potential hazards of spring break trips.

"Danger can be anywhere, even in a five-star resort," Moore said. "Get real with the teen about the seriousness of the situation and their safety plan."

Moore suggests watching some related programming with your teen. "There are documentaries and awareness programs that have aired on cable and PBS stations depicting spring break horror stories," she said. "Parents should key in these search terms online and watch the shows and media reports with the teen to gain some perspective."

Ask your teen what she thinks the spring breakers who were depicted did wrong and how she would act under similar circumstances. Have her write her safety promises on the plan contract. These promises may include phrases such as "I will not separate from my friends and go off with people I don't know"; "If I accidentally get separated from my friends, we will meet back at the hotel room"; and "I will not get into a car with a drunk driver."

Use Technology to Your Advantage
Add rules to the safety plan about how and when the teen will keep in contact with you. Agree on regular intervals each day for her to call and text you to check in.

Moore says most resorts have Wi-Fi, "so there is absolutely no excuse not to have regularly scheduled video chats to see the whites of their eyes and discuss the day."

If your teen misses a scheduled communication, spring into action, calling every number you have until you reach her. Also, monitor her bank or credit card activity so you know exactly where she's going. "After all, you're probably paying for it, so you have a right to say how your money is spent," Mayer said.

Use Hotel Staff
Moore suggests you connect with staff at the hotel to find out what's going on in your teen's room. "You'd be amazed at how many hotel staff members will accommodate a parent's request for information," she said. Call and speak with the hotel manager on the first day just to introduce yourself and touch base.

Keep the Faith
Sometimes, no matter what you do, bad things happen. Don't spend the week pulling your hair out and ruining what is supposed to be a good time for your teen. Do your homework, get him actively involved in the safety plan, keep in touch and let him enjoy the vacation.

"Be generous if they've earned it," Mayer said. "This is a great time to reward them for good behavior."

Read more: How to Keep Your Teen Safe on Spring Break | eHow.co.uk http://www.ehow.co.uk/feature_8017129_keep-teen-safe-spring-break.html#ixzz1GhEaFEYJ

Make a difference today for a victim of crime volunteer with Survivors In Action

2011-03-15T07:35:00.001-07:00

Special thanks to those who are donating their time, treasure and talents to Survivors In Action. By supporting our mission "no victim left behind", I can assure you that you are making a difference.

Over the past few weeks I have received many e-mails and letters from around the globe applauding the recent efforts of Survivors In Action and our latest fundraising campaign selling copies of "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying" to raise funds to create a victim resource for victims of cyberstalking and cyberbullying. We appreciate the support and hope that more non-profits will be inspired to be creative in 2011 to find new funding avenues as well.

I encourage more businesses and individuals to consider volunteering it has been a positive life changing experience for me and for the many others who are volunteering from around the globe.

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

To learn more about how you can help by donating your time, treasure or talent visit www.SurvivorsInAction.com

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Domestic Violence Victim Social Security Number Changes for Safety

2011-03-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

Message from Survivors In Action founder and President Alexis A. Moore regarding social security number changes for abuse victims
Updated 3/18/11

Special thank you to the domestic violence victims, volunteer victim advocates and non-profit leaders throughout the U.S. who have been working with Survivors In Action to help aid victims of crime that are pursuing identity change for safety. SIA understands that this is an important tool for victims to have in order to prevent further acts of violence especially today with the growing number of datafurnishing companies pursuing to sell and provide consumer private information to 3rd parties.

Survivors In Action will continue to accept queries and feedback from the public safety community as well as inquiries for assistance from victim advocates and victims in need of further support and assistance.

The poll below is created to provide information to the Social Security Administration to support the need for social security number changes.

Thank you!

Together we can make a powerful difference and help ensure "no victim is left behind"

Notice: Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore, Survivors In Action director(s), and volunteer(s) are not part of affiliated with or employed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency they are non-lawyer volunteer crime victim advocates helping to ensure “no victim is left behind”.

Replace NCADV and NNEDV!

2011-03-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

The NNEDV and NCADV are not doing what needs to be done to help implement DV REFORM yet these two national organizations have all of the power.

NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence and NCADV National Coalition Against Domestic Violence receive the vast majority of the funding and direct public policy issues pertaining to domestic violence and it is time for leadership that will listen!

Victims continue to reach out for help and find that no help exists. Shelters and the non-profits that serve victims need leadership at the national level that will put victims needs first and support ways to ensure no victim is left behind.

Abuse victim social security number changes -update

2011-03-09T11:52:00.000-08:00

If you are an abuse victim that has requested a social security number change and been denied by the Social Security Administration there is hope.

Notice: Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore, Survivors In Action director(s), and volunteer(s) are not part of affiliated with or employed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency they are non-lawyer volunteer crime victim advocates helping to ensure “no victim is left behind”.

Location-based Tracking: A solution for domestic violence homicide in NYS

2011-03-08T09:44:00.001-08:00

Location-based Tracking: A solution for domestic violence homicide in NYS
By Maria DiBari

Domestic homicides have been rampant in Dutchess County NY in the last year. We have lost four women, one unborn child, and one officer. This county has been devastated by domestic violence and we need to re-examine the current system and create a coordinated community response so that victims of abuse are protected, offenders are held accountable, and deaths are prevented.

Many of these homicides have something in common. The perpetrators are often jailed, but then released on low bail and given freedom while their victims remain vulnerable. Although shelters may be available to victims, domestic violence cases are unique and complicated. Many victims stay in the family home in fear of retaliation, or in fear of losing child custody; others stay because of their obligations to mortgage payments, or their responsibility to their career. The pathway out isn’t always an easy one to walk. By allowing perpetrators their freedom after a violent offense, or after the violation of a restraining order, we assume that the victim will escape to a shelter, and that the shelter isn’t at capacity.

We should recall why shelters were set up in the first place. Shelters were created to save abused women when the courts did not, or would not, hold the offender accountable for abuse. Since we have moved past a time when the court system didn’t recognize domestic violence as a crime, it is time we expand upon relying on emergency shelters as our only safety net for a victim of abuse.

After the murder of Linda Riccardulli of Hyde Park NY in 2010, Alyssa Kogon and I proposed “Linda’s Law” for NYS. I have since revised this bill to include a location-based tracking system and lethality assessment tools. It is being reviewed by state officials in NY and can be viewed at www.lindaslawnys.worpress.com.

Currently, NYS does not utilize lethality assessment tools. These assessments are questionnaires that are administered to victims by first responders at crime scenes. They are meant to predict high-risk cases and can be used in conjunction with location-based tracking devices. But because these tools aren’t utilized, NYS law enforcement cannot accurately predict risk. The inability to predict risk leads to domestic homicide.

The location-based tracking system requires that a perpetrator wear an ankle bracelet, which is used to track and notify victims and law enforcement if the perpetrator is outside the designated safety-zone and is violating a restraining order. Currently, GPS legislation has been introduced but not passed in NYS. According to www.cindysmemorial.org, a website that tracks national progress on GPS legislation, 16 states are already using this technology for domestic batterers. With overcrowded jails, high incarceration costs, and an increase in domestic homicide, location-based tracking devices seem to be an invaluable asset for victims, law enforcement, and the courts. Surprisingly there are domestic violence organizations such as the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence that outwardly opposes GPS monitoring and views it as a “quick fix, one size fits all approach” despite the fact that many victims are in need of and are demanding this technology. In spite of the opposition, GPS monitoring has a 100% success rate in preventing death, according to GPS Monitoring Solutions in CA, and is little to no cost to the taxpayer. An added benefit to location-based tracking is that it provides indisputable evidence that a restraining order was or was not violated, which eliminates false allegations from being made against the defendant, thereby protecting the rights of the accused.

There is one community that can be considered a “model” for domestic violence response, the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center Inc. in Newburyport , MA. This center strives to protect victims and tries to keep them out of shelters by creating a safety zone for them as an alternative option to hiding, and incorporates lethality assessments and GPS technology in their prevention plan. The Crisis Center presents a new model, one that creates a coordinated community response effort that involves victim advocates, law enforcement, and the courts. A model for domestic violence response is a community that doesn’t tolerate domestic homicide. Since the founding of this Crisis Center and its High Risk Response Team, there have been no intimate partner deaths in this community. This is a working model and one that NYS should be following, and Dutchess County should lead as an example.

Domestic homicide and domestic violence can be prevented. We have the tools available to guard victims of abuse and track offenders, and we have programs in other communities that we can learn from and use as a resource. As a state, the initial step should be to enact location-based tracking system legislation for domestic violence cases in Family and Criminal Courts. The second step should be enforcing this legislation by starting a location-based tracking pilot operation in Dutchess County NY. This seems to be a prevention plan worth implementing, with domestic violence funds being reworked and reallocated toward this project. By using the tools and resources available to us, we can prevent domestic homicide by strengthening the network of first responders, providing more accurate information to the courts, improving visibility for law enforcement, and protecting victims that are denied shelter after reaching out for help.

S.O.S. to Dutchess County New York lawmakers to react to domestic violence deaths

2011-03-03T20:14:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, March 02, 2011The Hudson Valley News: When will lawmakers and domestic violence organization leaders start acting on solutions for NYS?
The article below is written by Jackie Axt, Linda Riccardulli's sister. Linda was murdered last year and was a victim of domestic violence in Dutchess County NY. We are all still waiting on domestic violence agency/coalition/shelter leaders and state officials to act and advocate for domestic violence victims that are falling through the cracks of the system. We are waiting for support, for someone to represent us, for someone to stand up, acknowledge the problem, and make it their mission to solve the problem.

BY JACQUELLINE AXT

On July 29, my sister, Linda Axt-Riccardulli, was murdered by her estranged husband in cold blood in front of her daughter. She was a victim of domestic violence and her husband had been jailed for one month for this crime. He was charged with multiple domestic violence-related felonies. He held my sister and my nieces at gunpoint, in front of police. Even then, one month later, he was released on bail and two days later, ambushed her in her home as she slept.

The horror of this act is immeasurable. How could such a horrendous crime take place? Something must be done. My niece and I, working with Alyssa Kogon and Maria DiBari, held a press conference asking for changes in domestic violence laws. We stood outside the Poughkeepsie Courthouse together and as painful and difficult as it was, we were anxious to be heard. We thought we could bring about change. Imagine our disappointment when not one person from any local domestic violence organization, or state government official, even bothered to show up to show support.

The media was there. They listened as we told our story. The press conference was televised on a local station and covered by the local paper. Still, no elected official reached out to us. No one was listening. It was disheartening. Maybe one victim, two deaths and a single family destroyed was not enough to convince lawmakers that a change is needed.
Since my sister was murdered, six more domestic violence-related deaths have occurred in Dutchess County. A total of eight lives have been lost in less than seven months. The death toll climbing, and still no movement, no changes in legislation or protocol in handling domestic violence have been made. A closed-door committee in place to address the issue has produced no results, and is not accountable to anyone.

With every report of a domestic violence death, it is like Linda is being murdered again. Our wounds are ripped open and we feel helpless. Our advocates write letters and draft proposals for changes, but they stall on desks or fall on deaf ears. Linda’s children cannot heal until changes are made. How can we ask victims to stand up against abusers when the system turns them away and puts the abusers back on the street to hurt, and, yes, kill?

Someone in power must listen. Someone must stand up, make this their mission and make changes. Lawmakers must acknowledge that the laws must change and act. Polices and procedures must change. Innocent people are dead and families devastated. How many more lives must be lost before something is done?

Respond to this column at editorial@thehudsonvalleynews.com

Dangers of California Safe at Home Program, Open letter to Senator Ellen M. Corbett

2011-03-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

Dangers of California Safe at Home Program, Open letter to Senator Ellen M. Corbett

The California Secretary of State Safe At Home Program the state's ACP Address Confidentiality Program is getting a much needed update to aid victims wanting a confidential name change; however, there still remain hidden dangers that are not relayed to the victims enrolled in this program.

Survivors In Action is aware that Senator Ellen M. Corbett's office in California is working on legislation involving the California Safe At Home Program and it is our hope that these concerns will be addressed quickly since this program impacts victims of domestic violence who are utilizing this program to prevent further harm or worse death.

Presently name changes are public records even for victims of crime including victims of domestic violence who are at a high risk for stalking, continued harassment or even death.

With the upgrade to the Safe At Home Program it is indicated that victims' in the program will be given special accommodations stemming form this legislation that will mark their name changes confidential so that they prevent publication in public records databases and datafurnishing companies.

I hope this update is actually implemented. Far too often legislation is passed and caught in what I refer to often as a, "legislative log jam" and quality life saving legislation that benefits victims' never comes to fruition, and the old saying "fail to plan, plan to fail" applies.

This is good news that CA Secretary of State is finally considering updates, I have lobbied for these types of changes for almost 5 years when I first realized how flawed the CA Safe At Home Program was and how dangerous it is for victims who rely upon it without disclaimers of its short comings.

I remain cautious and skeptical knowing that big government has big flaws and for victims of domestic violence its far too often a matter or life or death so it is always better to error on the side of safety.

A message to those reading including vulnerable victims' of domestic violence, rape and stalking, beware as the utility companies make it easy for perpetrators to locate your home address.

A quick telephone call to the utility company this morning by a domestic violence victim in California made me cringe. The victim phoned PG&E her utility provider and was asked by the automated system for the last 4 of her social security number along with her phone number. Once inputted the computer system read her physical address outloud to her and she is one of thousands enrolled in the CA Secretary of State Safe at Home Program. Panicked she emailed Survivors In Action, hoping for the magic bullet that would cure this problem. Our volunteers directed her to go through a identity change including name and social security number change, however there is no full proof way to protect a person's privacy without more instruction.

Over the years there has been a steady rise in the number of inquiries received by Survivors In Action from domestic violence victims concerned about privacy protection and fearful of being located by batterers, others contact SIA concerned about cyberstalking .

The victims are scared, confused, frustrated and in desperate need of assistance and support that has not changed over the years.

The net continues to be new frontier explored frequently by perpetrators who continue to out pace law enforcement and legislative efforts.

It it is very difficult for consumers to protect their privacy with the number of consumer private records available on-line today. Datafurnishing companies make it very difficult for consumers to protect their private records.

It is true technology has improved and enhanced lives that is for sure however, the real question I am constantly pondering is for what price?

For some victims of stalking incidents last for years and even a decade because of the use of technology. For others changing their name, social security number and moving from one state to another is the only way to find resolve.

It is up to all of us who work in public safety and in particular with victims of stalking to rise above the "status quo" and to adjust to the maneuvers of the perpetrators who are utilizing tech.This requires time, patience and lots of additional hours that the job doesn't pay for; however, in order to excel and try to at least stay one step behind the perpetrators this is what has to be done.

NOTE FOR VICTIMS:
From Suzanne M. an abuse victim in California, "When I researched my ex's former crimes, I found the names, addresses and phone numbers of his former victims, along with the names of their children, in the court documents, specifically the ROs."

This is why we must pay close attention to the programs in California and elsewhere that offer "safe haven" to victims without providing notice of the shortcomings of these programs to victims becuase it can be a matter of life or death.

Notice: Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore, Survivors In Action director(s), and volunteer(s) are not part of affiliated with or employed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency they are non-lawyer volunteer crime victim advocates helping to ensure “no victim is left behind”.

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

Social Security Administration vital to domestic violence victims survival

2011-03-02T10:25:00.000-08:00

Today, there are increasing numbers of cases involving identity theft and domestic abuse. Domestic violence and stalking victims often fall prey to a form of identity theft which is often referred to by experts and prosecutors as "identity theft as abuse"- a subset of cyberstalking.

Identity Theft as Abuse is unique from traditional identity theft crimes because instead of the intent/purpose being for "financial gain", domestic abusers utilize these tactics in order to continue to have power and control over their victims.

Victims fearing for their lives are now losing control over their finances something that most experts and abuse victim advocates did not foresee being an issue until now. As technology advances so do the maneuvers of predators.

Abuse victims today turn to the Social Security Administration for help knowing that their first line of defense is to change their social security numbers to stop the vicious cycle of abuse. However, today it is still nearly impossible for abuse victims to change their social security numbers. Reaching out to the Social Security Administration to change their social security number becomes yet another obstacle for abuse victims in their struggle for survival.

Cases involving identity theft as abuse were often ignored by the courts and law enforcement until now; primarily thanks to the hard work of the prosecutors involved in the Peck case of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin court of appeals affirmed the conviction against Peck providing a new hope for victims of domestic violence, cyberstalking and identity theft as abuse; however, there is still a dire need to improve the response from the Social Security Administration and Survivors In Action is here to help work with the Social Security Administration to help make that possible.

Peck case synopsis:

WI Ct of Appeal - signing ex-wife up for subscriptions, etc. can be I.D.theft

State v. Peck
Docket: 2007AP002732 11-19-08
PER CURIAM. A jury convicted Daniel J. Peck of three counts of identity theft, finding that he engaged in conduct intended "to harm the reputation, property, person, or estate" of his ex-wife, contrary to WIS. STAT. § 943.201(2)(c) (2005-06). Peck argues on appeal, as he did on motions after verdict, that the word "harm" is unconstitutionally vague and that the State failed to prove that he intended to harm his ex-wife's reputation, property, person or estate. The trial court denied his motions, concluding that the jury permissibly gave the word its ordinary meaning, and that the evidence was sufficient. We agree and affirm.

A special thanks to Attorney Rhonda Martinson with the Battered Women's Justice Project for providing the case information.

Notice: Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore, Survivors In Action director(s), and volunteer(s) are not part of affiliated with or employed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency they are non-lawyer volunteer crime victim advocates helping to ensure “no victim is left behind”.
Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Victims of Crime Compensation Board tough to deal with for victims

2011-03-02T10:14:00.000-08:00

After learning that the California Compensation and Government Claims Board denied Jaycee Lee Dugard's mother's claim I was not surprised since this is tragically the same response and run around victims receive across the nation when applying through their state's respective crime victims compensation bureau or board.

One victim in California spent nearly one thousand hours with Survivors In Action volunteers to get emergency relocation assistance through CA Crime Victims Compensation after being told by Los Angeles County prosecutors it was a matter of life or death. Yet still the run around persisted and the victim continued to be re-victimized over and over again during the entire process by California Crime Victim Compensation.

The system can be best described as nothing short of a nightmare for victims and their families in California and across the nation.

Maria DiBari in NYS publicized her nearly 2 year long battle with crime victims board in New York and there are too many other victims just like Dugard's mother and others who reach out everyday and learn that their claims are denied and the appeals process is never ending.

"Victims reach out for help and provide endless amounts of information and are subsequently put through nothing short of a nightmare", says Alexis A. Moore, founder of Survivors In Action national victim advocacy organization based in El Dorado Hills, California.

"Tragically the response provided to El Dorado County California's local paper The Mountain Democrat by California Crime Victim Compensation is nothing new."

Survivors In Action is all too familiar with the nation's crime victim compensation boards denying all claims presented by crime victims who apply everyday in the hopes of receiving compensation and assistance.

Victims are denied and have nowhere to turn for help.

Now is the time to reform the crime victim compensation bureaus and boards in every state so that they do not re-victimize innocent victims who are in dire need.

##

No money for Dugard’s mom

By Jim Ratajczak | Democrat staff writer | September 19, 2010 10:53
A government claim for compensation filed by kidnapping victim Jaycee Lee Dugard’s mother was rejected last week by the state’s claims board.

The California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board denied Terry Probyn’s claim Thursday, nearly eight months after it was initially filed against the state’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Probyn sought compensation for psychological and emotional injuries stemming from “various lapses by the Corrections Department contributing to daughter Jaycee Lee Dugard’s continued captivity, ongoing sexual assault and mental and/or physical abuse,” according to the government claims form.

The exact dollar amount sought by Probyn is not listed on the document, but she indicated her “non-limited civil case” claim was for more than $25,000.

“Corrections Department has a responsibility to follow its own procedures (regarding) supervision, classification, and investigation of California parolees and failed to do so,” the form states.

Janice Mackey, the board’s public information officer, said the claim’s rejection was a formality.

“When a claim is rejected, it has nothing to do with the validity of the claim,” she said.

Mackey said the rejection opened the door for Probyn to seek litigation against the state.

“Anyone who believes the state has caused them harm must first file a claim to the board,” she said. “The board rejects claims that raise complex issues, allowing parties to proceed to court to seek judicial remedies.”

Earlier this year, lawmakers approved a $20 million settlement with Dugard and her two daughters, both minors, for failing to properly supervise her suspected kidnapper and convicted sex offender Phillip Garrido.

Terms of the settlement prohibit Dugard and her children from filing further claims against the state or state agencies.

Garrido and his wife, Nancy, are charged with kidnapping the then 11-year-old Dugard in 1991 near her South Lake Tahoe home and holding her prisoner for 18 years.

During that time, Dugard gave birth to two girls reportedly fathered by Phillip.

The Garridos face 28 felony charges, including kidnapping, rape and false imprisonment. They have pleaded not guilty. If convicted, they could face life in prison.

The duo is due back in court Oct. 1 for a pre-preliminary hearing. In August, doubt was raised over Phillip’s mental capacity, which could jeopardize his ability to stand trial.

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Crime Victims Compensation Board tough to deal with for victims

2011-03-02T10:12:00.001-08:00

The dangers of address confidentiality programs what every victim and public official should know

2011-03-02T09:16:00.000-08:00

If you are a victim of domestic violence or stalking and you are considering using a state offered ACP- Address Confidentiality Program or if you are considering an identity change, there is some information that you must know. There are far too many victims of crime relying upon these programs living with a false sense of security. Being informed could save your life!

It is important that all victims of crime including victims of stalking and domestic abuse become informed of the pitfalls surrounding state offered privacy protection programs before making a decision that may jeopardize their safety and the safety of those that they love.

I know first hand that these programs have their weaknesses and can be penetrated by abusers and stalkers- and they are often.

A person does not have to look far beyond the latest news headlines to learn that even experienced high-tech investigators, politicians, news anchors, celebrities and tech geniuses have difficulties with privacy protection today.

Many victims like me have survived because we had all of the information that we needed before making the decision on what programs to utilize and how to work around the flaws within the state ACP and identity change programs.

Here are the states that presently offer ACP (Address Confidentiality Programs)

There are many misconceptions in regards to the programs privacy protection capabilities. Victims and their family members should not rely upon the program as their only defense mechanism to protect their privacy.

1. Address Confidentiality Programs also known as, "ACP" or "Confidential Address Programs" do not allow packages delivered to their private mail box accounts, this also includes certified mailings and deliveries. These types of packages will be returned to sender. This can be alleviated by opening a private mail box account with a UPS Store or similar mail receiving station because these entities will receive certified letters, packages and other deliveries that the state ACP programs won’t.

2. Utility records including water, gas, electric, cable bills will have the victims name, physical address location as well as the confidential mailing address on file. This is cause for concern because then the victim’s new “confidential private address” is co-mingled with the crime victim’s actual physical location which may allow for a breach of the victims privacy.

3. Property record ownership information is not private. Victim’s utilizing the confidential address program must take caution and note that their real estate property ownership records are public records and available to anyone including convicted felons and domestic abusers. Property records are compiled county by county state by state and many of these records are available on-line through the county recorder clerk’s office.

These are only a few of the pitfalls involved with the use of the ACP programs. A victim’s privacy is far too often a matter of life and death, that is why it is very important for victims and their loved ones to be informed of the pitfalls of these types of privacy protection programs before they rely upon them as there only source of privacy protection.

Victims of crime, law enforcement, prosecutors and other vulnerable members of the public should not have to live in fear. There must be safeguards implemented to protect victims and the vulnerable members of public safety. The time to reform these programs and to implement security measures is today. Survivors In Action supports reform of ACP and other programs to ensure that "no victim is left behind".

If you would like to learn more about this topic and the work that Survivos In Action is doing to reform ACP and the datafurnishing industry contact Survivors In Action.

Domestic violence organizational leadership is out of touch with needs of victims in 21st century

2011-02-21T10:53:00.001-08:00

After a colleague pointed out that White House Advisor on Violence Against Women Lynn Rosenthal had written a commentary I was anxious to read it hoping that domestic violence and stalking resources were going to be changing in 2011 or that there were plans to improve resources "something"...alas there was nothing except more rhetoric and zero substance.

While I am sure that Lynn Rosenthal has good intentions like the many who are paid directing and working for the "DV Establishments" of today, however good intentions won't help to save lives only actions will. Right now domestic violence and stalking resources are failing victims and I cannot turn my back on them or the families of the loved one's lost until DV REFORM (domestic violence resource reform) becomes reality.

Domestic violence (DV) victims continue to suffer and die at the hands of their abusers—and even one victim who suffers or one life that’s lost to domestic violence is way too many. Yet the victims of domestic violence and their children are not getting what they need from the organizations that have been established to help them. Quite simply, victims are falling through the cracks. In the United States and in the 21st century, there simply is no excuse for this.

The appointment of Lynn Rosenthal as White House Advisor on Violence Against Women (VAW) signals recognition on the part of the White House that the critical problem of domestic violence needs a higher profile. Ms. Rosenthal has the opportunity to spearhead real, effective change that will save lives and give victims renewed hope—if she provides strong leadership and uses her position to enforce accountability on the part of agencies that provide services to victims.

More specifically, what kinds of change should Ms. Rosenthal make? Here are the key steps I think she should take:

1) Implement uniform protocols and procedures in every state to ensure that every federally and state-funded domestic violence victim organization operates under the same standards—standards that ensure that victims are not turned away and get the help they need.

2) Appoint a liaison in each state that victims and their advocates can contact to voice concerns and complaints when victims are refused service or do not receive the assistance they need, as well as report positive experiences. The state liaison does not necessarily have to be a public official (such as California Domestic Violence Committee Chair Fiona Ma). It could be a representative of any one of the many non-profit organizations—such as Survivors in Action—or state coalitions willing to serve as a clearinghouse. Today’s technology permits many things to be accomplished quickly and effectively, making it possible for such a clearinghouse to begin operating rapidly and at minimal or even no cost.

3) Form a national oversight agency or committee, reporting to her, to which state DV agencies and resources would be accountable and would report what is and isn’t working, and to which state liaisons could escalate grievances that cannot be resolved at the state level.

4) Provide strong, effective leadership for the many non-profits, volunteers, and other individuals who are eager to bring about domestic violence resource reform. To be effective, all these resources need to be marshaled and organized. Lynn Rosenthal, along with an effective oversight committee, can provide that leadership and organization. I am happy to offer my services and those of Survivors In Action to serve as a liaison to the White House, help form an oversight committee, and organize the wealth of resources committed to this cause.

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Dangers of datafurnishing: Sites like Peek You continue to furnish consumer information without notification

2011-02-16T08:23:00.001-08:00

The datafurmishing industry is growing and so are the number of stalking, cyberstalking and stalking incidents.

Sites like Peek You are making it extremely difficult for anyone to maintain any level of privacy. Worse however, is the way that Peek You and others treat those who are victimized by crime and desire to be removed from their databases. It is nearly impossible.

The datafurmishing companies like Peek You that provide a person's home address, age and other identifying information to anyone only makes it easier for perpetrators to stalk and cyberstalk or worse.

Stalking victims, domestic violence victims, members of law enforcement and our nation's public officials need to find ways to work together to protect the public including our youth who are jeopardized by datafurnishing companies like Peek You and others.

I have been lobbying for a consumer notification program since 2004. There is no stopping the billion dollar data furnishing companies but there are ways to protect the public-Mandatory Consumer Notification being one way.

Mandatory notification to consumers when datafurnishing sites like Peek You provide their personal information is an easy step for these companies to help protect the public from id theft, cyberstalking or worse death. The datafurnishing companies already have the consumers address and personal information so notifying them that their private records are being furnished to 3rd parties should be law.

Stalking victims like Peggy Klinkle and Amy Lynn Boyer lost their lives from being stalked by perpetrators utilizing the information obtained from the datafurnishing industry. These are only two victims that authorities have documented and that the media has reported. Since there deaths little has changed and the datafurnishing business has continued to grow and flourish.

I know of thousands of others who have had their own personal struggles with privacy protection because of the datafurnishing industry. It is time for our public officials to react and to help protect the public.

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Mark Zuckerberg’s stalking case can be a triumph for stalking victims around the world

2011-02-14T09:58:00.001-08:00

MARK ZUCKERBERG, STALKING VICTIMS EVERYWHERE NEED YOU.

Mark Zuckerberg’s stalking case can be a triumph for stalking victims around the world.

Yep, you read that right. Stalking victims and advocates believe that the key needed to bring about real change in the stalking victim resource system lies in Mark Zuckerberg’s hands. Not that we wanted him to suffer the horrors that we’ve suffered. No, we hope his stalking ordeal ends quickly and happily. But this talented social networking giant has the power, the technology and the international exposure needed to unlock the gates of reform. He is the key to help us bring real attention to the cyberstalking epidemic and the tens of thousands of victims who suffer each year.

Mark Zuckerberg may not yet know that he holds the golden key. But after speaking with non-profit leaders throughout the nation, there was a resounding notion that he has the power to ensure that no stalking victim is left behind in 2011. So I am sending out this virtual SOS and hoping that he hears our signal.

Welcome to our club, Mark Zuckerberg.

We have hundreds of thousands of members, so unfortunately it’s not a very exclusive club. Our members come from all walks of life though, women and men, boys and girls, rich, poor, famous and unknown. As you’ve learned, there are lots of awful dues to pay and membership is never any fun. I know, you never wanted to join and truly, we are sorry that you are here. But without a doubt, you are now a card-carrying member of the Stalking Victims Club.

I am president of Survivors in Action, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of cyberstalking and physical stalking. As a cyberstalking expert and advocate, I work every day to convince our legislators and the law enforcement and justice communities that stalking—both on line and offline—is a real and dangerous threat for all Americans. It’s a crime, but these criminals very often escape prosecution. As you learned the hard way, it’s hard to fight an attacker you can’t see. This crime is growing very extremely quickly, but the victims often receive very little support until it’s too late.

One of the most frustrating things I deal with everyday is disbelief and complacency. People simply don’t believe cyberstalking can ever happen to them. It only happens to other people, not them. But as your situation clearly demonstrates, there is no “free pass”, not even for celebrities, social networking giants, reporters, and high-tech investigators. When it comes to cyberstalking and physical stalking, we are all at risk. Both you and I know it’s true. After all, if the leader of Facebook can be victimized, then no one is safe.

We now live much of our lives on line, but the technologies we use also give our cyberstalkers a vast array of tools to attack us. We need help to fight back. We need to educate the public about the many ways they can proactively protect themselves. We need the on-line leaders to develop new safety programs that help us identify and stop cyberassaults. We need high-profile advocates, like you, to bring attention to the situation and help us convince legislators that more must be done to protect the public. We need new laws to protect us and more funds to train law enforcement and court personnel, create Stalking Victim Resource Centers, and prosecute criminals. Most importantly, we need to teach victims that there are ways that they can fight back, stop the attacks and rebuild their lives.
Mark, your recent stalking situation has renewed hope for the millions who are stalked each year, but who have suffered needlessly while trying to find help. Our hope is that your case can bring much needed attention to this growing crime. Most stalking victims don’t have your technological know-how, your vast networks, or your financial resources. But your very public battle with cyberstalking can help them access the support they need.

Many stalking victim advocates, like me, believe strongly that unlike the other celebrity stalking cases, yours will be the key. With your understanding of 21st century technologies, knowledge of on-line networking and communities, and the Facebook revolution behind you, you pack a double punch. Your social networking status is exactly what we need to take fight to the next level. With your help, we can fight this high-tech crime with 21st century technologies and win the fight against these high-tech criminals.

So Mark, if you are reading this, I am ready, willing, and able to help. My organization has hundreds of volunteers and we help tens of thousands of cyberstalking and physical stalking victims each year. But there is so much more to be done. I believe that you were named Time Magazine’s 2010 Person of the Year for a reason. Please Mark, join us in our fight to ensure that no stalking victim is left behind.

Alexis A. Moore
President, Survivors in Action
www.survivorsinaction.com

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

S.O.S. MARK ZUCKERBERG, STALKING VICTIMS EVERYWHERE NEED YOU

2011-02-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

S.O.S.
MARK ZUCKERBERG, STALKING VICTIMS EVERYWHERE NEED YOU.

Mark Zuckerberg’s stalking case can be a triumph for stalking victims around the world.

Yep, you read that right. Stalking victims and advocates believe that the key needed to bring about real change in the stalking victim resource system lies in Mark Zuckerberg’s hands. Not that we wanted him to suffer the horrors that we’ve suffered. No, we hope his stalking ordeal ends quickly and happily. But this talented social networking giant has the power, the technology and the international exposure needed to unlock the gates of reform. He is the key to help us bring real attention to the cyberstalking epidemic and the tens of thousands of victims who suffer each year.

Mark Zuckerberg may not yet know that he holds the golden key. But after speaking with non-profit leaders throughout the nation, there was a resounding notion that he has the power to ensure that no stalking victim is left behind in 2011. So I am sending out this virtual SOS and hoping that he hears our signal.

Welcome to our club, Mark Zuckerberg.

We have hundreds of thousands of members, so unfortunately it’s not a very exclusive club. Our members come from all walks of life though, women and men, boys and girls, rich, poor, famous and unknown. As you’ve learned, there are lots of awful dues to pay and membership is never any fun. I know, you never wanted to join and truly, we are sorry that you are here. But without a doubt, you are now a card-carrying member of the Stalking Victims Club.

I am president of Survivors in Action, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of cyberstalking and physical stalking. As a cyberstalking expert and advocate, I work every day to convince our legislators and the law enforcement and justice communities that stalking—both on line and offline—is a real and dangerous threat for all Americans. It’s a crime, but these criminals very often escape prosecution. As you learned the hard way, it’s hard to fight an attacker you can’t see. This crime is growing very extremely quickly, but the victims often receive very little support until it’s too late.

One of the most frustrating things I deal with everyday is disbelief and complacency. People simply don’t believe cyberstalking can ever happen to them. It only happens to other people, not them. But as your situation clearly demonstrates, there is no “free pass”, not even for celebrities, social networking giants, reporters, and high-tech investigators. When it comes to cyberstalking and physical stalking, we are all at risk. Both you and I know it’s true. After all, if the leader of Facebook can be victimized, then no one is safe.

We now live much of our lives on line, but the technologies we use also give our cyberstalkers a vast array of tools to attack us. We need help to fight back. We need to educate the public about the many ways they can proactively protect themselves. We need the on-line leaders to develop new safety programs that help us identify and stop cyberassaults. We need high-profile advocates, like you, to bring attention to the situation and help us convince legislators that more must be done to protect the public. We need new laws to protect us and more funds to train law enforcement and court personnel, create Stalking Victim Resource Centers, and prosecute criminals. Most importantly, we need to teach victims that there are ways that they can fight back, stop the attacks and rebuild their lives.
Mark, your recent stalking situation has renewed hope for the millions who are stalked each year, but who have suffered needlessly while trying to find help. Our hope is that your case can bring much needed attention to this growing crime. Most stalking victims don’t have your technological know-how, your vast networks, or your financial resources. But your very public battle with cyberstalking can help them access the support they need.

Many stalking victim advocates, like me, believe strongly that unlike the other celebrity stalking cases, yours will be the key. With your understanding of 21st century technologies, knowledge of on-line networking and communities, and the Facebook revolution behind you, you pack a double punch. Your social networking status is exactly what we need to take fight to the next level. With your help, we can fight this high-tech crime with 21st century technologies and win the fight against these high-tech criminals.

So Mark, if you are reading this, I am ready, willing, and able to help. My organization has hundreds of volunteers and we help tens of thousands of cyberstalking and physical stalking victims each year. But there is so much more to be done. I believe that you were named Time Magazine’s 2010 Person of the Year for a reason. Please Mark, join us in our fight to ensure that no stalking victim is left behind.

Alexis A. Moore
President, Survivors in Action
www.survivorsinaction.com

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

San Diego News | Cyberstalking: An In-Your-Face Internet Problem

2011-02-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

San Diego News | Cyberstalking: An In-Your-Face Internet Problem

S.O.S. to Mark Zuckerberg from one stalking victim to another

2011-02-10T13:27:00.001-08:00

How Mark Zuckerberg's stalking case could lead to triumph for stalking victims everywhere

Mark Zuckerberg was not named Time Magazines 2010 person of the year for nothing-

Stalking victims and advocates believe the future of stalking victim resources could be in Mark Zuckerberg’s hands. Yep you read it right- the social networking giant has the power and what I call the "golden ticket" for unlocking the gates of stalking victim resource reform and he may not even know it yet. Thanks to social networking and the global impact of facebook I am pretty sure that he or someone near to him knows by now though.

Those who felt that they "didn't have to worry" about the threat of stalking or cyberstalking may not be so sure now since the global social networking giant has been victimized.

As a cyberstalking expert and advocate I concur that it is true Mark Zuckerberg is an example that there is a risk to all when going on-line these days. There is simply "no free pass" for celebrities, social networking giants or even high-tech investigators - we are all at risk leaving plenty of room for the average person to be victimized all the same.

Mark Zuckerberg’s recent stalking situation has renewed hope for stalking victims and we are hoping his turmoil has a happy ending not only for him but for the millions stalked each year who have no place to turn for help in the U.S. today.

Zuckerberg's recent public battle with both cyberstalk and traditional stalk has helped to support the dire need for the U.S. to create a Stalking Victim Resource Center in every state that provides direct assistance to victims something that is not in existence today and that is long over due.

After speaking with non-profit leaders throughout the nation there was the resounding notion that although Zuckerberg may not realize it yet he truly has the "golden key" to ensuring that victims of stalking are not left behind in 2011. So here I am sending out the S.O.S. hoping that he can find my signal-albeit a virtual one.

There are many stalking victim advocates like me who feel strongly that unlike celebrities that are stalked who attempt to bring about change Zuckerberg has the real power because he packs the double punch of having 21st century technology and the facebook revolution behind him. He and his social networking empire are exactly what it takes to bring about real stalking victim resource reform in the 21st century.

So Mark if you are reading I am ready, willing and able to assist and know over 3,000 volunteers willing to help do the same to ensure “no victim of stalking is left behind”.

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Safeguarding your home before you leave for vacation

2011-02-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

Dangers of address confidentiality programs from a victim who knows

2011-02-05T04:13:00.000-08:00

Special thank you to the many domestic violence victims who share their experiences to help bring about awareness of the dire need for DV REFORM. The email below depcicts the realities faced by victims who utilize ACP- Address Confidentiality Programs also known as Confidential Address Programs and in California Safe at Home. There is nothing worse than being re-victimized by the same system that is supposed to help victims.

Reforming ACP programs and the process to change social security number for victims of stalking is all long over due.

Email from domestic violence victim sharing her experiences with ACP:

Dear Alexis,

I am a DV survivor. I read your blog and attempted to respond, but my post was too long.

I declined the DV professionals' suggestion to change my name and SS#. Instead, I opted for the Address Confidentiality Program. I think I took the more difficult route.

Here is what I counsel other victims:

Address Confidentiality Programs, The REAL Story............

CAUTION! The Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) is VERY unlikely to work! Unless of course you have the energy, the resources, the commitment and the vast amount of perseverance to attempt a successful inclusion. Don't bet your life on it. This is what you should be prepared for:

1. Renewing your Drivers License: Even with the legal documentation of your ACP participation, you will probably be met with ignorant stares. If you show them the state statute exempting your address from public records, they will probably become rude and abusive. After you call the governor's office five times, the DL Bureau will call you back and apologize.

2. Registering to vote: Voting rolls are public records, but most states' statutes exempt ACP participants from public records. But the elected Supv of Elections is not mandated to take the training of the statutes defining their own processes. So, they won't register you with protected status. Your choice: Vote OR stay alive. Take your pick. This participant called the governor's office and said, "Hi. I've been denied the right to register to vote." It got fixed.

3. Any utility account you will open will become public record on any people search engine in less than 60 days. There are a few utility agencies that have a program for ACP members to get bogus name accounts, but it will take a minimum of 20 discussions and one month to set up. Most don't. You will die in 60 days.

4. Library cards. Some library professionals can read statutes and have a program set up for ACP participants. For the rest, call your county or city commissioner, explain the problem and ask them to intervene for you. Or forego library privileges.

5. Contact your elected official. No chance. They will not communicate with you unless you are in their district. But your legal address is outside their district and if you give your real physical address to them so that you can communicate with them, it becomes public record. What kind of flowers do you want at your funeral?

6. File a police report about anything. Police reports are public records. In my state, ACP participants' addresses are exempt from public record - by law. But confirm with your local law enforcement that they have heard of this law, much less abide by it. I just tried to make a report of a burglary at my home. The local law enforcement did not recognize the ACP concept, name, statute or implementing authority. They would treat my address like any other - public. Report and die. What was stolen is not worth my life. I did not report.

7 Get car insurance. In most states it is a felony to "Misrepresent your garaged address" to your auto insurer. Your garaged address determines your risk and premiums. However, when a friend called my auto insurer, pretended to be me, and asked to confirm the address change, the office read the real physical address to the caller without verifying identity. Auto insurance workers, like anyone else that knows your real address, can also be bribed for the information. Give it to NOBODY. The auto insurer now thinks I garage in a drawer in the state capital, hundreds of miles away. For that, I am committing a felony and likely invalidating any coverage I am paying for - just to stay alive.
　
8. Few banks know that the US Treasury came out with a ruling in 2009 that states banks may honor the ACP state addresses and the bank will remain in compliance with the bank's obligation for Homeland Security laws. Instead the banks will demand your local physical address until YOU provide them with THEIR professional updates. Are you willing to bet your life that the low paid teller won't take a bribe or your assailant won't hack into their server? But, if you have the energy to take on the responsibility of educating the banking professionals also, give them this: http://www.fincen.gov/statutes_regs/guidance/pdf/fin-2009-r003.pdf

There is more, but I'm tired just surviving.

Therefore, until the paid DV professionals help us out by demanding accountability of the governing bodies implementing these programs, we are all dead ducks.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO VICTIMS CONSIDERING IDENTITY CHANGE

2011-02-05T03:58:00.001-08:00

"I had to fill out paperwork on my new job today. They called yesterday...so I called the Social Security Office to check on my application for a new Social Security Number. They said they sent a letter...must be in the mail because the decision was made on the 16th to deny me a new number. The worker left me a message on my phone...Said, there wasn't enough evidence of ongoing abuse."

"What do I do now?"

This is an actual recent account of the tragic breakdown of resources available to abuse and stalking victims today who are attempting to change their social security numbers and identities to help prevent future harm or worse death.

Survivors In Action continues to receive thousands of requests from domestic violence victims from across the nation desperate to find the "magic bullet" to get social security administration to accept their application for social security number change.

Victims continue to rely upon volunteer victim advocates with Survivors In Action along with public officials to help cut through the red tape when requesting a social security number change.

Social security number changes are for many abuse and stalking victims a matter of life or death because of the datafurnishing agencies of today and technology. It is easy work for batterers and even those behind bards to locate a person using the net today.

The majority of the requests that are sent in to the SSA, Social Security Administration by abuse and stalking victims requesting a social security number change are denied on the same basis, "not enough evidence of ongoing abuse."

As a victim I can attest to the fact that for those like me who have applied to SSA for this change receiving this canned response in the mail is support for the need for DV REFORM and for allocating dollars to improving the social security administration response and promoting awareness of id change for victims of stalking and abuse.

Special thanks to Senator Mike Rogers in Alabama for his office's assistance helping victims of stalking and abuse. It is my hope that more public officials from across the U.S. will follow suit.

If you are a domestic violence victim being given the "run around" by social security administration officials here are some easy steps for you to use to cut through the red tape.

1) Obtain letters from your local public officials in support of your social security number change. A simple statement from your assemblyman or local senator can make a big difference in cutting through the social security administration red tape.

2) Obtain letters from lawyers, victim advocates, family members, co-workers or any member of law enforcement or individual that will oblige your request to write a support letter.

3) Find a advocate at your local domestic violence shelter or reach out to Survivors In Action we will help you!

There is nothing worse than living or working in fear and SIA knows the importance of victims being afforded safety measures like social security number changes- they are far too often a matter of life or death.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO VICTIMS CONSIDERING IDENTITY CHANGE:

If you are a victim considering an identity change or name change be aware name changes are often public records so they are not confidential in some states.
For more information on this topic read here

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

New York State fails another domestic violence victim- when will the madness end?

2011-02-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

Post courtesy of Maria DiBari, volunteer domestic violence advocate
To Learn more about Maria DiBari and DV REFORM visit www.4Survivors.blogspot.com

I just started working with a NYC victim of violence this past week. Another woman from NYC trying to get help in a bad situation, that is about to get worse, and can't seem to get help from Safe Horizon in NYC.

This domestic violence victim has a job, is trying to raise her child, and has an abuser that is being released from jail in 2 months that has made death threats. She tried contacting Safe Horizon in NYC so that she and her child could enter the shelter system, but Safe Horizon wanted to charge her a fee for her stay since she is employed. Because she has an income, this family would only be given a 60 day stay at this NYC shelter with no further assistance/protection or guidance and then she would be back on the streets with her child.

(Why not just stay at a hotel?)

If this woman was unemployed she would have probably been offered a better package at Safe Horizon. In my opinion, most shelter systems (not all) seem to punish those of us that have an income, and aren't completely destitute.

This week I will be trying to find this woman assistance in NYS; it won't be easy. She needs a plan and protection, and while there are many shelters and programs available, I will be providing her with assistance and giving her a plan. It looks as though the shelter system chewed up another victim in crisis and spit them out again- not surprising.

You can prevent cyberstalking; advice from cyberstalking expert and victim advocate Alexis A. Moore

2011-01-31T07:14:00.001-08:00

12 Tips To Protect Yourself From Cyberstalking
Take the Time To Implement These Key Self-Defense Moves
From Alexis A. Moore for About.com Women's Issues

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

Parent's guide to cyberbullying and cyberstalking now available

2011-01-30T09:05:00.001-08:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

"A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"- the 21st century handbook parent's should not be without

2011-01-21T11:15:00.000-08:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

Will courts protect women stalked in the workplace?

2011-01-18T05:14:00.000-08:00

PRESS RELEASE: January 12, 2011

Law Offices of Dawn V. Martin, LLC
e-mail: dvmartinlaw@yahoo.com

(202) 408-7040; (703) 642-0207
website: www.dvmartinlaw.com

Washington, D.C. – January is National Stalking Awareness Month -- a particularly appropriate time for Martin v. Howard University to before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. Attorney Dawn Martin is asking the Court to hold that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects a woman against employment discrimination if she reports sexual harassment that is characterized by the police as “stalking” in her workplace.

78% of stalking victims are women. 54% of female murder victims reported their stalkers to the police before being killed by them. “Many stalking victims are afraid to let their employers know that they are being stalked,” Martin said, “They are afraid of being fired. No woman should have to choose between her job and her safety.” In a 2009 documentary about the case, Kim Gandy, then, the President of the National Organization for Women (NOW), explained why NOW took the lead in the Amicus Brief filed in an earlier appeal in this case. Gandy said this case is “very important” to issues that NOW has worked on for years. “We’ve had situations like this, where women, stalked in the workplace, were fired, or let go, because they were stalked.” See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxyzwRGYIgA. Martin is seeking additional women’s groups and victim’s advocacy groups to join in an Amicus Brief in her current appeal. She is also urging an amendment to Title VII that would expressly protect victims of stalking and domestic violence against employment discrimination.

When Martin was a Law Professor at Howard University, she was stalked by a delusional, homeless, serial campus stalker, Leonard Harrison. Harrison was searching for the physical embodiment of his "fantasy" wife -- a fictional female character in a book, written by the renowned Professor, Derrick Bell. Howard did not ban the stalker from Law School building, despite advice from the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department to do so and its own established Campus Police banning procedures. Further, Howard refused to renew Prof. Martin’s teaching contract. Martin sued, alleging sexual harassment/hostile work environment and retaliation. In 1999, the U.S. District for D.C. set precedent in Martin, holding that an employer can be held liable for the sexual harassment of an employee by a non-employee, if it knew or should have known of the harassment and failed to take reasonable steps to stop it. Martin v. Howard University. 1999 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 19516, 1999 WL 1295339 (DD.C. 1999)

In 2006, a jury agreed with Prof. Martin that Harrison’s harassment did create a “hostile work environment” and that that Howard did not take reasonable steps to end it; however, the jury asked for a clearer legal definition of “sexual harassment.” The judge refused to provide it. Confused about the legal definition and Title VII coverage, the jurors concluded that Harrison’s harassment of Prof. Martin was not based on her sex or sexual in nature. This meant that she was not “protected” by Title VII. Martin is appealing District Court Judge Hogan’s October 8, 2010 decision refusing her motion for a new trial. Martin is relying primarily on the Supreme Court’s January 26, 2009 decision in Crawford v. Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tenn. 129 S. Ct. 846, 853 (2009), for her argument that the interpretation of “protected activity” is a question of law for the Court – not a question of fact for the jury. Martin is also relying D.C. Human Rights Act cases that hold that the question of whether the plaintiff participated in “protected activity” is a legal question for the Courts, not a factual question for the jury. See McFarland v. George Washington University, 935 A.2d 337, 356 (D.C. App. 2007); Carter-Obayuna v. Howard University, 764 A.2d 779, 790-791 (D.C. App. 2001.

For more details see, e.g., www.dvmartinlaw.com/MartinvHowardU; http://www.womensenews.org/story/crime-policylegislation/110110/stalking-victim-presses-employment-protection; http://vimeo.com/18706532; Good Morning America http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/erin-andrews-leads-stalking-round-table/story?id=11322694 (Martin interviewed by journalist Erin Andrews, also stalked by a stranger while working)

Dawn V. Martin, Esquire
Law Offices of Dawn V. Martin, LLC
1725 I Street, N.W., Suite 300
Washington, D.C 20006
(202) 408-7040 D.C. phone
(703) 642-0207 home office
(703) 642-0208 facsimile
DVMARTINLAW@yahoo.com
www.dvmartinlaw.com

Specializing in employment discrimination, civil rights and tort law
"Working for Justice in the World"

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Cyberstalking and cyberbullying victim resource on horizon

2011-01-11T16:36:00.001-08:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

Survivors In Action (SIA) a national non-profit advocacy group, announces partnership with McGruff Safegaurd

2011-01-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACT: 916.496.1648
January 7, 2011

January is National Stalking Awareness Month

Survivors In Action (SIA) a national non-profit advocacy group, announces partnership with
McGruff the Crime Dog® during the launch of (SIA’s) handbook:
A Parent’s Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying

El Dorado Hill, CA -- January 4, 2011-- Statistics reveal that 76% of women murdered in the US was stalked, prior to their deaths. This January marks the seventh annual observance of Stalking Awareness Month. Through this month we remember the millions of people victimized by stalking and domestic violence and that they remain vulnerable in a world where there as still few resources available, to victims of stalking. What can we do to make sure those victims have the resources they need to become survivors of the abuse they suffered? During National Stalking Awareness Month, Survivors in Action (SIA) a non-profit advocacy group has partnered with the McGruff Crime Dog who provides simple common sense approach as a national symbol of a reminder to do the right thing. The McGruff Crime dog® and president of SIA plan to visit sites in the United Sates -- and abroad to reach out to teachers, parents and children alike -- to educate through McGruff’s reminders and long trusted advice, alongside with SIA’s unique guide about the dangers of cyberstalking and bullying.

“Stalking is a way perpetrators of domestic violence monitor and control their victims, and the behavior often escalates. Sadly, it appears there really are no resources available to victims of stalking and domestic abuse,” said Alexis Moore, founder of Survivors in Action. “Victims of abuse who reach out to centers designated to help find out that there really aren’t direct services available to them. It’s time to ensure that ‘victim resources’ are indeed resources available directly and specifically to the victims and their families,” added Moore.

Moore has transformed herself from victim to survivor as a nationally recognized advocate for domestic violence and cyberstalking and bullying victims. She is leading the way in bringing awareness to needed reform of the current system of domestic abuse treatment after founding and serving as president of Survivors in Action, a nationwide non-profit advocacy group that supports victims of crimes including domestic violence, identity theft, elder abuse, cyberstalking, stalking, child abuse, rape, and sexual assault. In her efforts to bring awareness, Moore has given presentations across the country and has been featured on ABC's Good Morning America. She has also contributed articles on domestic violence, stalking, and cyberstalking for outlets such as The New York Times and Glamour.
Survivors in Action (SIA) is a non-profit, national advocacy group that supports victims and the families of victims of any crime, including domestic violence, identity theft, elder abuse, cyberstalking, stalking, child abuse, rape, and sexual assault. Other national organizations typically help victims at specific points in their victimization cycle - such as when they first report the crime or in writing parole opposition letters - leaving gaps in needed services. SIA is the only organization that fills the gaps, providing support through all stages of the journey from victim to survivor, with no time limitations, cut-off dates, or conditions. Our mission is to ensure that no victim anywhere in the world is left behind. Please visit our website at www.survivorsinaction.com for more information.
###

Creating a stalking victim resource selling one book at a time- "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying" helping to ensure "no victim is left behind"

2011-01-06T09:00:00.001-08:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying
is the must have 21st century handbook for parents, educators, coaches and those who want to help protect our world's youth.

Order your copy today at the Survivors In Action web site or for your Kindle on Amazon. 100% of the proceeds are being donated to create the nation's fist victim resource and assist victims directly.

Times are tough and funding options tougher now than ever especially for victim resources. Monies continue to be allocated to resources that provide awareness and yet organizations that provide direct services to victims continue to be underfunded-morale at an all time low, Survivors In Action founder, Alexis A. Moore came up with a new innovative way to generate funding to provide direct assistance to victims-selling her latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying".

"I was going to give the book away, but after some thought I realized this was the best way for Survivors In Action in 2011 to promote awareness and generate the funding needed to create a victim resource and assist victims directly", says Alexis A. Moore founder of Survivors In Action.

"We were able to kill two birds with one stone-one page at a time. Promoting awareness and generating funding were top priorities for 2011 and this book is our way of making this happen in the shortest amount of time".

Survivors In Action director and volunteer Jody Ortiz is the person that deserves the thanks and praise as her help is what got the book to the finish line literally so thanks Jody!

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Handbook for parents and teachers helps to educate on cyberbullying and cyberstalking

2011-01-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore latest book, "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying"

Fabulous news for US cyberstalking and stalking victims spying on your spouse’s email by hacking into their account could be a felony thanks to Michigan case setting precedent

2010-12-28T14:49:00.000-08:00

The world wide web which I often refer to as the “wild wild west” has created a safe haven for criminal’s especially domestic abusers and stalkers.

Technology has outpaced our nation's antiquated laws. Victims of stalking, cybertstalking and identity theft know all too well how drastically a life can be changed by a perpetrator sitting behind a computer screen.

"Thankfully 2011 holds a brighter future for U.S. cyberstalk and stalking victims as the recent Michigan spyware case of a "snooping spouse" could lead to cyberstalking cases being prosecuted and victims finding the support and resources they need in the 21st century"- says Alexis A. Moore author,cyberstalking expert and victim advocate.

Today there is hope on the horizon for millions of victims of high-tech stalking which the experts call cyberstalking.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice 1 in 4 women are stalked in their lifetimes. Many stalking cases involve the use of technology; however, there are only a handful of organizations that provide resources to victims of high-tech crimes like cyberstalking.

Stalking cases that involve the use of technology often "baffle" law enforcement and render victims helpless to protect themselves against these heinous crimes.

For the victims who have been told that spyware programs like CyberSpy don't exist or worse that they were "crazy" for thinking that someone was accessing their computer- this is a victory for all of you!

Finally for the millions of cyberstalking victims who have been turned away and even laughed at by members of law enforcement -you now can have the last laugh because you have been vindicated! For the millions unaware that this technology exists, here is proof.

The vast majority of resources and organizations available to crime victims are not adequately prepared to assist victims of high-tech crimes primarily because the resources developed to serve victims were created prior to the technological information age.

There is now new found hope for victims on the horizon....

It was announced by the Federal Trade Commission, that a U.S. District Court has issued a temporary restraining order halting the sale of key logger spyware. According to the FTC's complaint, the Florida-based CyberSpy Software, LLC marketed and sold RemoteSpy keylogger spyware to clients who would then secretly monitor unsuspecting consumers' computers. The FTC seeks to permanently bar the unfair and deceptive practices and require the defendants to give up their ill-gotten gains.

Companies like CyberSpy Software should be made illegal and now! The billions of dollars that these type of high-tech companies have made in profits over the years should be confiscated and utilized to help create cyberstalking advocacy programs in the United States. There must be severe economic consequences for agencies like these in order to deter other spyware and datafurnishing companies from popping up in their place.

If you are a stalking victim with a case involving the use of technology YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

If you or someone that you love is a victim of cyberstalking and in need of assistance regarding privacy protection or identity change contact Alexis A. Moore by e-mail Alexis@survivorsinaciton.com.

###

Court Orders Halt to Sale of Spyware

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. District Court
has issued a temporary restraining order halting the sale of keylogger
spyware. According to the FTC's complaint, the Florida-based CyberSpy
Software, LLC marketed and sold RemoteSpy keylogger spyware to clients
who would then secretly monitor unsuspecting consumers' computers. The
FTC seeks to permanently bar the unfair and deceptive practices and
require the defendants to give up their ill-gotten gains.

According to papers filed with the court, the defendants provided
RemoteSpy clients with detailed instructions explaining how to disguise
the spyware as an innocuous file, such as a photo, attached to an email.
When consumer victims clicked on the disguised file, the keylogger
spyware silently installed in the background without the victims'
knowledge. This spyware recorded every keystroke typed on the victim's
computer (including passwords); captured images of the computer screen;
and recorded Web sites visited. To access the information gathered and
organized by the spyware, RemoteSpy clients would log into a Web site
maintained by the defendants.

Defendants touted RemoteSpy as a "100% undetectable" way to "Spy on
Anyone. From Anywhere." According to the FTC complaint, the defendants
violated the FTC Act by engaging in the unfair advertising and selling
of software that could be: (1) deployed remotely by someone other than
the owner or authorized user of a computer; (2) installed without the
knowledge and consent of the owner or authorized user; and (3) used to
surreptitiously collect and disclose personal information. The FTC
complaint also alleges that the defendants unfairly collected and stored
the personal information gathered by their spyware on their own servers
and disclosed it to their clients. The complaint further alleges that
the defendants provided their clients with the means and
instrumentalities to unfairly deploy and install keylogger spyware and
to deceive consumer victims into downloading the spyware.

On November 5, 2008, the FTC filed its complaint and requested a
temporary restraining order against the defendants from the U.S.
District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Orlando Division.
Under the terms of the order approved by the court, in addition to
halting the sale of their RemoteSpy software, the defendants must
disconnect from the Internet any of their servers that collect, store,
or provide access to information that this software has gathered.

The complaint also names Tracer R. Spence - the registered agent and
manager of theOrlando, Florida-based CyberSpy Software - as liable and culpable for
the charges made in this case. The Commission vote authorizing the staff
to file the complaint and request a temporary restraining order was 4-0.

A complaint filed by the Electronic Privacy Information Center ("EPIC")
brought the RemoteSpy software to the FTC's attention.

NOTE: The Commission authorizes the filing of a complaint when it has
"reason to believe" that the law has been or is being violated, and it
appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. A
complaint is not a finding or ruling that the defendants have actually
violated the law.

The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent,
deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to
help spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint in English or
Spanish, visit the FTC's online Complaint Assistant or call
1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357). The FTC enters complaints into Consumer
Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 1,500 civil
and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. The FTC's
Web site provides free information on a variety of consumer topics.

###

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Survivors In Action founder Alexis Moore latest book "A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying" proceeds being donated to create victim resource and assist victims

2010-12-27T08:25:00.000-08:00

Every day you hear another statistic about victims of cyberbullying. Teens and tweens unknowingly invite strangers into their worlds. They provide the ammunition for these strangers to emotionally tear them down when online relationships fall apart, as they typically do with teens.

Reality television is partly to blame. We see into the worlds of private, everyday citizens with nothing deemed too personal. With the popularity of social networking combined with the real aspects of reality television, teens and tweens believe it's acceptable to put their entire lives on display. They don't understand that to some, it's a game of voyeurism and that some choose their victims online.

For years Alexis A. Moore played the game. She was the target of playground bullies and she didn't realize that she gave the bullies the ammunition they needed to target her. It was in the third grade when she first learned the saying, "They can't get your goat if they don't know where it's tied." As a young child, the meaning behind the words didn't sink in until years later after surviving domestic violence and online stalking that she learned how to tie her goat. Now she's teaching others the difference between being social and smart online and tying your goat where everyone has access to it and knows how to "get your goat."

Today, Moore has transformed herself from victim to survivor as a nationally recognized advocate for domestic violence and cyberstalking and bullying victims. She is leading the way in bringing awareness to needed reform of the current system of domestic abuse treatment after founding and serving as President of Survivors in Action, a nationwide non-profit advocacy group that supports victims of crimes including domestic violence, identity theft, elder abuse, cyberstalking, stalking, child abuse, rape, and sexual assault.

In her efforts to bring awareness, Moore has given presentations across the country and has been featured on ABC's Good Morning America. She has also contributed articles on domestic violence, stalking, and cyberstalking for outlets such as The New York Times, Glamour, and About.com. She keeps other survivors up-to-date with news and trends with her blog at http://www.AlexisAMoore.blogspot.com.

Moore's story arc is certainly clear-from victim to victim's advocate-from scared, uninformed girl to woman in control of her life. Moore is an experienced high-tech investigator and shares her sage advice for online safety in a manner which parents and caregivers of teens and tweens can relate and then utilize in their protection efforts-starting with her playground experience and the lesson that she has never forgotten.

A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying: Protecting Your Children as Simple as 1 - 2- 3 is a parent's survival guide to engaging with children and grandchildren to help ensure that they find refuge and security from their family members and caregivers when and if a cyberstalker or cyberbully and your child cross paths.

Order your copy today!

100% of the proceeds being donated to develop a victim resource so that "no victim is left behind"

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Survivors In Action

2010-12-26T06:46:00.001-08:00

A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying by Alexis A. Moore

2010-12-26T06:45:00.001-08:00

Survivors in Action’s New Year’s Resolution - END Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking

2010-12-22T09:30:00.001-08:00

Survivors in Action’s New Year’s Resolution - END Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking

December 21, 2010 – San Francisco, California - January 2011 marks the eighth observance of National Stalking Awareness Month.

Survivors in Action is bringing the issue to the forefront by spreading awareness of the fact that technology is being used to terrorize, stalk, and bully. With the development of faster, better, more advanced technology, the number of victims will undoubtedly increase.

Author of “The Naked Truth Bound in Scorn,” Jody Ortiz, is all too familiar with both traditional stalking and cyberbullying. “Cyberstalking and cyberbullying have cost me my livelihood, and I have no ability to fight back. I am stuck in a vicious cycle with no end in sight.”

Ortiz, like many victims of cyberbullies, cowered in fear of the bullies. She allowed them to control her life over a period of two years. Now, with her book and through telling her story, she’s attempting to regain her life.

Alexis A. Moore, founder of Survivors in Action, law student, and author of “A Parents Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying: Protecting your children as simple as 1-2-3” has begun to make contact with the families of cyberbully victims who have lost their loved ones. She hopes that other victims and agencies will unite with her and Survivors in Action in the forward momentum the group of volunteers is creating in an effort to make a change in 2011. 100% of the books proceeds are being donated to create a victim resource and assist victims.

Contact Jody Ortiz at jo@jodyortiz.com.

Contact Alexis A. Moore at alexis@survivorsinaction.com.

About Survivors in Action

SIA is a non-profit group for victims and the families of victims of any crime, including cyberstalking, cyberbullying domestic violence, identity theft, elder abuse, traditional stalking, child abuse, rape, and sexual assault. Typically, organizations help victims at specific points in their victimization cycle—such as when they first report the crime or in writing parole opposition letters—leaving “gaps” in needed services. SIA is the only organization that fills the gaps and provides support through all stages of the journey from victim to survivor, with no time limitations, cut-off dates, or conditions. Our mission is to ensure that no victim anywhere in the nation is left behind. To help the cause or to learn more, visit www.SurvivorsInAction.com. To learn more contact info@survivorsinaction.com.

Survivors In Action "No Victim Left Behind"

Alexis A. Moore's latest book, A Parent's Guide to Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying: Protecting Your Children as Simple as 1 - 2- 3 now available!

2010-12-14T17:33:00.001-08:00

Identity theft as abuse - cyberstalking more obstacles for abuse victims to overcome in 21st century

2010-12-13T12:34:00.000-08:00

More obstacles for abuse victims to overcome in 21st century

Today, there are increasing numbers of cases involving identity theft and domestic abuse. Domestic violence and stalking victims often fall prey to a form of identity theft which is often referred to by experts and prosecutors as "identity theft as abuse"- a subset of cyberstalking.

Identity Theft as Abuse is unique from traditional identity theft crimes because instead of the intent/purpose being for "financial gain", domestic abusers utilize these tactics in order to continue to have power and control over their victims.

Domestic violence abusers armed with their victims personal identifying information often apply for credit cards, magazine subscriptions, e-mail accounts, create web sites including my space and facebook accounts and use the victims identifying information to reek havoc upon their lives-often causing damage to the victims credit and reputation both of which are very difficult to restore once they are lost.

Cases involving identity theft as abuse were often ignored by the courts and law enforcement until now; primarily thanks to the hard work of the prosecutors involved in the Peck case of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin court of appeals affirmed the conviction against Peck providing a new hope for victims of cyberstalking and in particular victims of "identity theft as abuse" - the majority of which are domestic violence and stalking victims.

Peck case synopsis:

WI Ct of Appeal - signing ex-wife up for subscriptions, etc. can be I.D.theft

State v. Peck
Docket: 2007AP002732 11-19-08
PER CURIAM. A jury convicted Daniel J. Peck of three counts of identity theft, finding that he engaged in conduct intended "to harm the reputation, property, person, or estate" of his ex-wife, contrary to WIS. STAT. § 943.201(2)(c) (2005-06). Peck argues on appeal, as he did on motions after verdict, that the word "harm" is unconstitutionally vague and that the State failed to prove that he intended to harm his ex-wife's reputation, property, person or estate. The trial court denied his motions, concluding that the jury permissibly gave the word its ordinary meaning, and that the evidence was sufficient. We agree and affirm.

A special thanks to Attorney Rhonda Martinson with the Battered Women's Justice Project for providing the case information.

If you suspect that you may be a victim of identity theft as abuse or cyberstalking or wish to learn more regarding how you can prevent these crimes, contact Alexis A. Moore directly by e-mail Alexis@survivorsinaction.com or your local domestic violence center for more information.

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Donating to charity this holiday season ? Please consider a crime victim! Pre-paid cell phones help ensure "no victim left behind"

2010-12-09T11:26:00.000-08:00

Survivors In Action's list for Santa is growing this year as the numbers of victims of abuse and stalking continue to rise while victim resources continue to fall short.

The needs list below are items that victims from across the nation are hoping Santa brings them this year. This list is growing by the day and the numbers of victims who are in need has tripled this past year.

Survivors In Action is all volunteer and our efforts are focused on ensuring "no victim is left behind".

If you or your community is looking for a way to make a difference in 2011 please adopt a needy crime victim and purchase one of these items so that "no victim is left behind".

Prepaid cell phones

Digital tape recorders

Surveillance equipment

Self defense classes

Pepper spray

Retail gift cards

Computers

Printers

Fax machines

Victims continue to be left behind by the government funded domestic violence and stalking institutions of today.

A pre-paid cell phone is a victims life line since it is very easy for a batterer or stalker to obtain a victims cell phone records and utilize them to trace their whereabouts and day to day activities placing them in harm's way.

If you or your business is looking for a way to spread some holiday cheer and potentially provide life saving equipment to victims who are in desperate need please contact Survivors In Action for more information. 100% of the donations go to victims who are on a wait list.

For stalking victims securing a criminal conviction not enough -tougher penalties needed for perpetrators

2010-12-02T08:02:00.000-08:00

Stalking and cyberstalking incidents are on the rise and victims continue to reach out for help and find that securing a criminal conviction is still not enough. Tougher penalties and victim resources needed in order to ensure "no victim left behind".

In the United States, monies continue to be allocated to organizations like the National Stalking Resource Center while victims continue to be left behind! Funding must be allocated to resources that will provide professional advocates who will work with victims one on one so that they may become survivors. The time to reform crime victim resources is now so that "no victim is left behind".

Survivors In Action has experienced an increasing number of victims reaching out for help. Stalking victims complain still that their cases are not being taken seriously by law enforcement, prosecutors and that they are living and working in fear. This is unacceptable. The startling statistics below are indicative of why Survivors In Action and those who love, serve and support victims of crime must continue to be vigilant in promoting awareness of stalking and help to ensure "No victim is left behind".

Pat Walker Health Center – University of Arkansas – 525 North Garland – Fayetteville, AR 72701
(479) 575-7252 or (479) 575-7722

Stalking Statistic and Fact Sheet
Stalking in America

�� Approximately 1 million women and 371,000 men are stalked each year in the US
�� 1 in 12 women and 1 in 45 men will be stalked in their lifetime
�� 87% of stalkers are men
�� 77% of female and 64% of male victims know their stalker
�� 59% of female and 30% of male victims are stalked by an intimate partner
�� 81% of women stalked by a current or former partner are physically assaulted by that partner and 31% are sexually assaulted by that partner
�� The average duration of stalking is 1.8 years and increases to 2.2 years if the stalker is a former partner
�� 61% of stalkers made unwanted phone calls, 33% sent unwanted letters or items, 29% vandalized property, and 9% killed or threatened to kill a family pet
�� 12% of stalking cases result in criminal prosecution
�� The relationships of stalkers and victims are as follows: 43% dating/intimate partner, 8% neighbor, 5% coworker, 3% acquaintance, 18% spouse/ex-spouse, 8% public figure, 15% no relationship
�� On average, 92% of stalkers are male. The average age is 38 years.

If you are a victim of stalking or cyberstalking you are not alone. Reach out to Survivors In Action for help.

Survivors In Action
"No Victim Left Behind"

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Stalked by cell phone- when technology goes wrong

2010-12-01T09:00:00.001-08:00

For victims of stalking and domestic violence escaping an abusive relationship is more difficult than ever before thanks to today's technology.

The recent piece in The Wall Street Journal; "Stalking by cell phone GPS" depicts the harsh realities that technological advances far too often become part of a predators tool kit.

Victims need to have a cell phone to connect to the outside world and most cannot afford expensive prepaid phones.

Offering a victim a prepaid cell phone to use while escaping a violent environment is vital.

Survivors In Action's volunteers are working hard to help ensure "no victim is left behind" through the donations of prepaid phone cards to SIA which are directly received by needy victims on a wait list from across the country.

If you want to help make a difference for domestic violence victims in your area contact Survivors In Action today for information on this program.

Survivors In Action"No Victim Left Behind"

Make Christmas special for a young child this year . . . be a Secret Santa!

2010-11-29T09:53:00.001-08:00

Make Christmas special for a young child this year . . . be a Secret Santa!

Cause Page
Or go to our Donations Page to donate by PayPal
Or use our new GiveMN Fundraiser Page

Facebook and Twitter may be keeping people closer rather than driving them apart.

2010-11-17T10:08:00.000-08:00

Survivors In Action is a virtual organization that uses tech to connect which is the growing trend.

Facebook and Twitter may be keeping people closer rather than driving them apart.Professionals from various fields attest to the benefits of social media.

”The interactions online and using tech don't diminish the need for in-person contact and especially in many instances they can be the catalyst for individuals and entities engaging more in person because of the increased level of communications,” Alexis A. Moore, president of national crime victim advocacy organization Survivors In Action adds. “It has made it easier because now we can stay more connected than ever before with those we love, work and play with and this keeps relationships on the front burner that may be left behind if it were not for the constant contact using tech to connect.”

Help protect victims of cyberstalking and cyberbullying support Samantha Kelly law in Michigan!

2010-11-15T10:41:00.000-08:00

Cyberstalking victim Samantha Kelly may be gone but she is not forgotten.

Please help honor her memory by supporting the Samantha Kelly Law "Samantha Justice Act" in Michigan to ensure victims of cyberstalking and cyberbullying are not left behind.

Email your support letter to Robert Luce the legislative representative with Michigan Senator Glenn Anderson's office: Rluce@senate.michigan.gov today!

A sample support letter is below that you can cut and paste.

Your name
Address

Date

Senator Glenn Anderson

RE: Support for Samantha Kelly's law; "Samantha Justice Act"

To Whom it may concern:

Please support Samantha Kelly law to help ensure victims of cyberstalking and cyberbullying are not left behind.

This legisaltion is long over due.

Sincerely;

Your name

##

Survivors In Action founder Alexis A. Moore on cyberbullying and society

2010-11-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

OurBlook interview with Alexis A. Moore, president & founder of Survivors in Action

Is the impact of online bullying on a victim the same as personal, physical bullying or different?
AM: The impacts of physical bullying often result in broken bones and bruises that will heal in comparison to the invisible crime of cyberbullying, which often takes its toll emotionally on a child/tween or teen. Traditional bullying can be more easily detected by school administrators, parents, coaches and caregivers while cyberbullying remains the invisible crime like its broader cousin cyberstalking, which takes longer to be noticed by third parties in a child's life without knowing what particular warning signs to look for.

Can schools do a better job of preventing cyberbullying and cyberharassment?AM: Schools definitely can do a better job by becoming active in promoting awareness and holding assemblies and functions that address the topic of cyberstalking, which includes cyberbullying. The approach needs to involve discussing it within the classroom settings, at assembly, parent/teacher conferences, PTA meetings, in the locker rooms ... the more awareness the better. Ignoring the problem or having the mindset that "this is not happening at our school" is a big disservice to the students, faculty as well as the parents who want the best for the children of today.

Are there new laws that states or localities need to pass to combat this problem?
AM: Laws are not enforced or in effect in all 50 states. Since this is an area of criminality that is rapidly evolving, it will take much time for all 50 states to have laws on the books and to get them enforced. Cyberstalking crimes like cyberbullying are difficult to prosecute because of the nature of the crime ... there is a burden on the victim to have evidence that far too often is not available after incidents have taken place. So the difficult nature of securing evidence coupled with the man hours needed from law enforcement and prosecutors make this a difficult challenge.

How can young victims fight back?
AM:

· Avoid isolation. Falling in to the trap where the victim remains silent and does not report to parent, caregiver, coach or guardian is exactly what the cyberstalkers are depending upon.

· Collect evidence ... once a cyberattack is initiated, victims often freeze, exit out of the application where they are being stalked and forget how important it is to print and document the experience as soon as it takes place.

· Reach out to experts. This is a new area of criminality ... reach out to experts who are experienced in assisting victims and have knowledge on what laws are in force in your particular state/jurisdiction.

What should parents do if their child is a victim of cyberbullying?
AM:

· Reach out to experts. This is a new area of criminality ... reach out to experts who are experienced in assisting victims and have knowledge on what laws are in force in your particular state/jurisdiction.

· Side Note: Parents often feel they have failed if their child is targeted or feel ashamed to reach out for help in many instances in fear of being judged as a bad parent. These cases are serious and impact a child/tween/teen for years and it is important for parents to take a strong stance and be proactive when they learn their child is under siege by a cyberstalker.

· Get parental control software ... there are many pieces of software that allow parents and children/tween/teens to work together to combat/control cyberstalking behavior.

Please tell us about your group Survivors in Action and how it deals with the cyberbullying issue.
AM: Survivors In Action was founded by Alexis A. Moore, a former high-tech investigator who was victimized by cyberstalking. Her experiences overcoming alone without the help of any government agency, victim advocacy group or law enforcement agency were the catalyst for her to become an advocate in the areas of cyberstalking, which includes cyberbullying, ID theft and other areas of cyber criminality. SIA volunteers work with parents and caregivers, coaches directly those who are in need of assistance and we also conduct trainings for the public, contribute and collaborate with law enforcement agencies from across the globe and work hard to lobby for legislation that will be victim-centered to ensure no victim is left behind.

Of course, cyberbullying can strike adults as well as children. Your online bio says you were a victim of cyberstalking for three years and that you used cybertricks to fight back against it. Can you tell us what happened to you and what you did about it?
AM: To keep it short, here is my story in print: Cyberstalking Story

Here is what I did to survive: Cyber Prevention ... in addition to these key cyber maneuvers, I connected with public officials, members of law enforcement from across the nation, and prosecutors at the state and federal level to learn what case precedent there was, to identify who has experience prosecuting and investigating cyberstalk cases. I utilized tech to connect and my experiences as a high-tech investigator and being cyberstalked to create my own escape route from the nightmare that is known as cyberstalk/cyberbullying of today.

(Editor's note: the above link provides 12 tips for avoiding being cyberstalked. To give you an idea, here's the first one: "Never reveal your home address. This rule is especially important for women who are business professionals and very visible. You can use your work address or a rent a private mailbox.")

What role does anonymity play for the cyberbully?
AM: Anonymity is a big part of why the behavior continues. Many who cyberstalk are those who would not be able to hurt a fly on the playground, on the ball field. Sitting anonymously behind the computer screen enables many who would never take action in person to take actions and commit vile acts of cyberstalking and cyberbullying that they would not do in person.

Once victims are identified and called out and ousted, the activity stops ... in cases involving children when the bad guys are ousted, the cyberstalk "game" is not fun anymore.

Is cyberbullying usually an individual act or within the context of a group?AM: The cases we have are equal ... there are those that gang cyberstalk/bully in groups and individuals who go it alone.

Does cyberbullying occur frequently within a school population or is it an unusual event?
AM: Occurs frequently and since so many children/tween/teen do not report it to adults and remain isolated, we don't know as a population until something really bad happens, sadly. But this is changing thanks to media accounts, public awareness, books like mine coming out next month and the efforts of organizations like Survivors In Action who work hard to keep this topic in the headlines to ensure no victim is left behind.

What are the most common effects of cyberbullying/cyber harassment on society?
AM: It causes delays in a person's ability to grow and flourish at any age. Since the cyberattacks impact persons and leave no visible scars, there are often many who were successful in school, play and work who are not functioning at the same levels as they were before. Experts in the field of medicine and science can discuss the damage in medical psychological terms more than I can since I am a cyberstalking expert and victim advocate and not an MD or psychologist.

All in all, having a cyberthreat out there that is not a computer virus like cyberstalking makes using tech, which is vital to connect and for commerce, difficult for many who are victimized. That has a devastating impact on society.

Do you think the problem will get better or worse in the years ahead?
AM: I think as time passes, the epidemic will subside. It will take time for tech, law enforcement, prosecutors, public officials, educators and the general public to wrap their heads around the criminality but as with any other new phenomenon, time heals many wounds.

In fact, since I was victimized and rejected as crazy when I reached out for help in 2004, we have made a lot of great strides but not without many dedicated individuals like myself willing to share the most intimate details of their journey in order to bring about real time awareness and reaction from government agencies.

Is there anything else you'd like to say about cyberbullying?
AM: My hope is that by continuing to speak out about what I experienced and books like my survival guide for parents on the subject, society as a whole will be more willing to discuss this topic openly and candidly with their children, friends, co-workers and public officials to help ensure victims of cyberbullying and cyberstalking have the tools that they need to become survivors.

Since there are not adequate resources for victims, I am donating 100 percent of the proceeds of my upcoming book to cyberstalk victims.

(Ms. Moore's forthcoming book will be titled "99 Things Parents Wish They Knew Before Cyberstalking Victimized Their Children." She is a member of the Women's Media Center SheSource, an online braintrust of female experts on diverse topics designed to serve journalists, producers and bookers who need female guests and sources. She has professional experience as a former high-tech investigator and credit collections expert. She is the founder of the Crime Victim Organization Network and host of Taking Action Radio. She is a director for the Witness Justice National Crime Victims' Organization and Women's Legal Resource. She is an advisory board member of the Beginning Over Foundation, the Majority United and the Weaker Vessel. She has contributed to law enforcement training manuals and collaborated on a vast array of book projects.)