Clevland,TN (WDEF)- Inside Redemption to the Nations Church on Saturday, people from across Bradley County gathered for one purpose — to stand against domestic violence and support survivors.
The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office hosted a first-of-its-kind Domestic Violence and Abuse Awareness Educational Symposium, bringing together law enforcement, advocates, and survivors under one roof.
“This whole thing started as a brainstorm,” said Chay Kimsey, Public Information Officer with the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office. “We wanted to bring as many community resources as possible to educate people on what it means to be a victim.”
Participants heard from experts, learned how to report abuse, and explored the legal process for prosecuting domestic violence cases. Nonprofits and agencies, including the District Attorney’s Office, were on hand to provide vital information and resources.
Kimsey said the department plans to compile those resources into materials deputies can hand out during calls for service — to help individuals who are victims, at risk, or simply have questions.
“I would encourage people — whether they know they’re a victim, think they might be, or just need support — to come to us,” Kimsey said. “And if they’re not comfortable talking to law enforcement, we can still connect them with the right resources.”
Organizers say the event was just the beginning of a larger effort to educate and empower the community.
