Family Justice Center shares press release following domestic violence homicide of Jamecia Moffitt in South Bend

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The Family Justice Center, which helps survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, sat down with ABC57 after sharing a press release following the domestic violence homicide of Jamecia Moffitt on Feb. 28.

Jessica Richmond-Castello, Executive Director of the Family Justice Center, tells ABC57 they're committed to helping survivors.

"We serve domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking survivors in our community, and that can mean a variety of things. Whether we're accompanying them to court, helping them file for protective orders, helping them understand the process of the criminal or civil justice systems," Richmond-Castello explained.

On Tuesday, Castello released a statement with three different sections. Section two was titled "support their process, don't rush it."

"Statistically, it takes seven times for a survivor to leave a domestic violence relationship, and just simply knowing that services exist is critical in reducing that number of times," shared Richmond Castello.

Domestic violence has many faces and looks different in every case. A person could be facing physical abuse, emotional abuse or even financial abuse.

"Financial abuse is a big one, and we've seen a lot since covid, starting out in that financial abuse realm and then escalating further."

When keeping an eye out for signs of abuse, Richmond-Castello says simply put, sometimes it's good to not mind your business.

"If you see something that makes your Spidey Senses go off or if you're concerned, check in with that person."

Castello says the hard work is worth it, especially when you can save a life.

If you or someone you know is in need of the services provided at the Family Justice Center, you can stop in at 533 N. Niles Avenue or call 574-239-6900.