Statement by Connie Neal, Executive Director of the NYSCADV Regarding Sen. Sepulveda Domestic Violence Allegation

“Today, we are again reminded how domestic violence affects people of all backgrounds, all socio-economic levels, all ages and all professions. No one is immune.”

“It is stunning that individuals across New York State continue to be abused by their intimate partners. It is critical that all abusers are held accountable, regardless of their stature in the community. And we commend those who do not attempt to dismiss or minimize domestic violence – individuals like Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, who acted swiftly and appropriately to strip Senator Luis Sepulveda of his committee chairmanship and assignments.”

“Days after Governor Cuomo put forth a package of proposals to fight domestic violence, we are faced with the reality that domestic violence can happen anywhere, at any time. NYSCADV thanks the Governor for keeping attention on this issue and we stand ready to work with the Governor and Legislature to ensure all survivors get critical resources to support their safety.”

According to the DV Counts nationwide survey performed each year by the National Network to End Domestic Violence1, New York State has one of the highest demands for domestic violence services in the country. Data from the most recent Census indicate that, on one day alone in New York last year, nearly 6,000 victims of domestic violence received services. On that same day, nearly 800 requests for domestic violence services went unmet in New York because of critical funding and staffing shortages. Since March 2020 when the Pandemic began, domestic violence advocates throughout New York State report significant increases in the demand for, and complexity of, domestic violence services.

ABOUT THE NEW YORK STATE COALITION AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:

Established in 1978, NYSCADV is designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as the information clearinghouse, primary point of contact, and resource center on domestic violence for the State of New York. NYSCADV is responsible for supporting the development of policies, protocol, and procedures to enhance domestic violence intervention and prevention and also provides education and technical assistance to the network of primary-purpose domestic violence service providers statewide.

Click here to download the statement.