“If you see something, say something”: Law enforcement focuses on abuse victims, keeping SB County safe

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley, Sheriff Bill Brown and Fire Chief Mark Hartwig addressed community safety at a press conference Tuesday morning.

The leaders' central message was that Santa Barbara County will get through the current coronavirus pandemic, but that the community must stick together and help each other in the meantime.

Specifically, the press conference focused on a local increase in abuse calls since California's 'Stay at Home' order last month.

"The data will scare you," Dudley said, citing a 21 percent jump in abuse calls in the County during the first week of the 'Stay at Home' order, but a drop in abuse calls afterward. She says that is "alarming," because the only way those numbers would drop is if people are afraid to call law enforcement.

Dudley, Brown and Hartwig urged anyone who sees, hears or knows about abuse of a family member, neighbor or even a stranger to call law enforcement--either 911 or through a local victim advocate at (805) 568-2400.

“More than ever, we need to support and protect one another,” Brown said. “If you see something, or hear something, say something.”

The leaders also urged the community to check on family, neighbors and loved ones who may be struggling or sick.

“I promise you, you will never be sorry for making that call,” Dudley said. “But if you don’t, you may live the rest of your life being sorry you didn’t make that call.”

Sheriff Brown says people in the County are generally complying with health orders and are staying at home. When asked if there is concern people will begin to disobey the health orders if they stretch through the summer months, Sheriff Brown said he believes people "recognize the gravity of this situation."

Dudley says law enforcement has not noticed many non-essential businesses violating current the health orders by staying open.

The law enforcement leaders stressed that those who are feeling fearful are not alone, and the County will work together to get through the crisis.

Watch the full press conference here: