(Posted 2026 January)
A victim of domestic violence reached out to the Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline after experiencing panic attacks due to ongoing abuse. The caller reported being subjected to verbal, physical, and financial abuse by their partner.
Using the Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) screening tool, the Hotline Specialist determined the caller was at high risk for serious assault or homicide. Together, the specialist and the caller developed a safety plan that: identified informal support networks, such as friends or family members; explored emergency shelter options; prepared an emergency bag with clothing, cash, and important documents; and created a list of emergency contacts, including 911, a local emergency domestic violence shelter, and the Fairfax Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline.
The caller also expressed concerns about their partner tracking their location and feared being found if they left home, so the Hotline Specialist provided guidance on disabling location tracking on the caller’s cell phone and shared resources about technology-facilitated stalking.
Additionally, the specialist offered information on various support resources, including advocacy services, medical treatment options, financial support, and counseling services. The caller was supported through every aspect of her road to recovery by staff commitment and perseverance.
Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services division supports adults, teens, and children who have been impacted by domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking. Services are confidential, free, and provided regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
If you or someone you know is experiencing interpersonal violence, call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for resources and support. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
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