Eye on Crime: Santa Barbara County District Attorney program assists victims of crime through 24/7 phone line amid COVID-19

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. –  During the pandemic, Santa Barbara County prosecutors added new services to assist victims of crime.

The office had to close down because of the pandemic, so a 24-hour phone hotline was set up to help people in their time of need.

One of the biggest concerns the last several months has been crimes that happen at home.

“For example, if they were in a domestic violence situation and maybe were hesitant to call 911, we thought of setting up a 24/7 line so we could offer resources and referrals,” said Santa Barbara County District Attorney Victim Witness Assistance Director Megan Reinschild.

Results from the hotline were so good that witness services will keep it up and running, even as the pandemic is winding down.

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