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New Victim Services Advocate on duty in Eastern Washington County
Victims of domestic violence have access to a new support system, thanks to the addition of a victim's advocate who is now serving all of eastern Washington County.
Tiffany Welch, a 2002 Hurricane High School graduate, recently was hired as the eastern Washington County victim assistance coordinator. Within three hours of completing state training with the Utah Domestic Violence Council, Welch said she was quickly put to work on a domestic violence call.
"It was an estranged couple and the male was threatening the female," said Welch, who also completed a two-year internship with the Hurricane Police Department while in high school. "It was a really good first call."
Hurricane Police Chief Lynn Excell said Welch will work with victims and help them throughout the often confusing legal process they face.
"We're excited. This is a collaborative effort between different agencies," said Excell. "It's a wonderful asset to bring to the citizens of our valley and all of eastern Washington County."
Funded with a $22,700 grant from the federal Violence Against Women Act, the advocate position stems from an in depth collaboration between various law enforcement and service agencies throughout Washington County.
"Law enforcement tends to focus on the perpetrator, leaving victims to wonder what to do next. That tends to re-victimize the victim," said Excell. "During these tough economic times, a lot of people are having a rough time getting through it. Domestic violence calls go up."
Under the grant, the agencies collaborating on the project must provide a 25 percent match in either cash or in-kind services. An enthusiastic response from area law enforcement agencies guaranteed a quick match for the grant funds.
"Everyone is excited to be on board with this program," said Hurricane Assistant Police Chief Shayne Copeland, who will serve as the program director. "We have needed a victim's advocate on this side of the county for years. It's harder for a victim to say "no thank you" to an offer of help if they have to say it to someone in person."
The Washington County Sheriff's Office provided a vehicle; Hurricane Police designated an office in its new police station; Springdale issued a cell phone and provided office space; and LaVerkin offered a computer, printer and office space for Welch to use.
Smaller communities may also provide space at local fire stations where Welch can meet with domestic violence victims in a neutral, safe haven closer to where they live.
Communities to be served by Welch include Hurricane, Leeds, Toquerville, LaVerkin, Virgin, Apple Valley, Rockville, Springdale, Hildale, portions of Washington City and New Harmony. She will also respond to calls from those living within unincorporated areas of eastern Washington County.
Welch said volunteers are needed to help the program grow. Right now, the grant only allows Welch to respond to female victims. Those interested can fill out an application at their local town hall or police station. Training will be provided for those who qualify.
For more information, contact Welch at the Hurricane Police Department at 635-9663 or by email at victimadvocate@cityofhurricane.com | 
