City of Lockport Police Department
Chief of Police - Lawrence Eggert
One Locks Plaza
Lockport, New York 14094
Phone: 716.433.7700
Beginning in June of 1999, LPD became the first city Police Dept in Niagara County to from its own Domestic Violence Program; called "Key to Lockout." For this program we formed a Domestic Violence Unit consisting of the project administrator; Lt. Doug Haak, victims advocate; Anita Provenzano and 7 police officers.
Photo courtesy of Dennis Stierer
Each time officers respond to a call that is domestic or family related, a domestic incident report is completed by the officer regardless if there are charges or not each complainant/victim is entitled to a copy of this report. Every report goes to the victim advocate who rates each report on a level of seriousness. The advocate makes every attempt possible to reach the complainant/victim on each report to; 1) make sure she/he is safe 2) offer appropriate referrals to outside agencies 3) explain and see complainant/victim through court process if there are charges involved 4) assist with orders of protection 5) provide court advocacy and court accompaniment.
This procedure is followed to help ensure that victim's do not "fall through the cracks" which has been a major problem over the past several years.
The advocate also works closely with the Niagara Country District attorneys office to assist in achieving an outcome that the complainant/victim is satisfied with. For example; possible court mandated counseling for the defendant.
Typically, one day per week is spent out in the field, conducting home visits by an officer from the DV team and the advocate. There are various reasons why this done; 1) the seriousness of the incident 2) if complainant/victim wishes to discuss incident in an atmosphere where she/he feels more comfortable 3) if there is a lengthy history of domestics in the household 4) if attempts to reach complainant/victim through phone contact have failed, especially if there are charges involved.
- Domestic Violence is a pattern of behaviors in a relationship that are used to gain power and/or control over another person.
- Keep in mind that Domestic Violence is not always physical and in many instances is emotional and psychological.
- Call 911 if you are in danger.
- Let someone know.
- Keep a log of specific events with dates and times.
- Write down names of people whom you speak with (ex; assistant DA's, police officers etc.)
- Have important papers ready if you decide to leave (ex; birth certificates, social security cards etc).
- Contact your local domestic violence program.
- Keep important phone numbers with you.
If you feel you may be involved in a domestic violence relationship or have questions regarding Domestic Violence, The Lockport Police Department Key To Lockout Program may be able to assist you with; filing a report, seeking an order of protection, safety planning for you and your children, court advocacy & referrals to community agencies such as; emergency shelters, counseling programs for you & your children and family court.
ADV support group for women victims is held every Thursday evening from 6-7:30pm at the YWCA at 32 Cottage Street, Lockport, NY. Walk-ins are welcome. You can contact Anita Provenzano Monday - Thursday 8:30am-3:30 pm and Fridays at the YMCA, 716-433-6714.
Domestic Violence is a Crime!
There is a 24-hour confidential hot line and shelter number, which is 716.433.6716. This project is supported by a grant administrated by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. Points of view in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the Division of Criminal Justice Services.
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