Fetterhoff Files Bill To Speed Up Domestic Violence Injunction Transfer

Daytona Beach, FL – A state representative from Volusia County is filing legislation that will require law enforcement agencies to transfer domestic violence injunctions via secure email. Currently in the State of Florida, if a domestic violence victim with an injunction against their abuser were to move to counties, law enforcement agencies would have to send the injunction through the postal service.  This is because a majority of agencies in the state do not accept domestic violence injunctions to be transmitted electronically from their county clerk’s offices or outside of their county. According to Representative Elizabeth Fetterhoff (R-DeLand), this could delay the injunction’s transfer by a week, potentially putting victims in danger of further abuse, violence, or harassment. “People are still in danger when they’ve already taken the steps to try and protect themselves by filing an injunction,” said Fetterhoff. “Now they’re waiting another week before it takes effect.” This can also help make the process more efficient for both the clerk of court and law enforcement, according to Fetterhoff. “It’s often a difficult and terrifying decision to leave an abusive relationship,” added Fetterhoff. “When an individual courageously takes that first step, outdated processes should not be a barrier or delay to their safety.” Fetterhoff believes that the issue stems from smaller law enforcement agencies following outdated processes by doing the transfer manually through the mail; even in the days of COVID-19, when the entire world became more accustomed to working and communicating online. She said the change really boils down to just common sense. “Common sense would tell you to move into the modern age and have access to emails on all of these cases,” said Fetterhoff. “They’re still doing it the ‘old school’ way because that’s the way they’ve always done it.” “Unfortunately, until there are some changes in these offices, they’ll continue to do it that way,” added Fetterhoff. The average number of injunctions filed statewide from 2016 to 2019 were around 83,000-85,000. In just 2019 alone, 105,298 crimes of domestic violence were reported to Florida law enforcement agencies resulting in 66,069 arrests, according to a report from the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).  A report from the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence says between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018, the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline received 28,387 calls, where 70 percent of callers sought help directly related to violence related to their partners, family, or some kind of sexual violence, or stalking. Fetterhoff has filed this bill as HB 905 Protective Injunctions. The senate’s companion bill, SB 654, was filed by Senator Janet Cruz (D-Tampa). If you are experiencing domestic violence and are in need of help, know that there is always help. Visit MyBeaconCenter.com for information on sheltering and support services. You can also visit the DCF Domestic Violence Hotline webpage to find a list of resources close to you, or call them at 1-800-500-1119.