EPHRATA - Victim advocates from New Hope Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services began ride-alongs on March 22 with Grant County Sheriff's Deputies in a partnership designed to help victims and enhance prevention efforts.

The first key feature of this program is that advocates and deputies get to meet face-to-face and get exposure to each other's work experiences. Often a deputy will handle the domestic violence or sexual assault incident but may not directly work with a crime advocate after the case has moved forward.

"This gives each professional the time to exchange information on how best to handle such cases," Sheriff Tom Jones said.

The second key feature of the partnership is that advocates respond on scene to incidents involving domestic violence or sexual assault. Once the deputy approves the advocate to go onto the property, the advocate will work with the victim, provide crisis counseling, and offer information packets.

The advocates also arrange shelter admittance and transportation, and children of victims also receive information.

"This program helps us in law enforcement provide better services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault," Jones said. "Many victims may not immediately seek help, or know how to seek help, for the violence they are experiencing. Having a New Hope advocate on scene can provide the victim with immediate assistance and resources, and then the advocate can guide the victim through the system and get any long-term assistance they may need."

Initially, advocates will ride with deputies once a week. They will ride more frequently as workloads permit.

For more information, contact the Sheriff's Office at 509-754-2011 ext. 468, or New Hope Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services at 509-764-8402.