Fort Bragg Police Chief Neil Cervenka recently reported a 53% increase in domestic violence responses compared to the previous year. In this report, Project Sanctuary Executive Director Michelle Roberts and Deputy Director Makayla Chacon provide insight into the scope of domestic violence on the Mendocino Coast and in inland areas of the county.
The Fort Bragg office of Project Sanctuary handled 168 individual domestic violence cases, along with an additional 20 to 30 sexual violence cases. Countywide, the nonprofit assisted in 440 cases.
Roberts explains the demographics of the victims and the underlying factors that contribute to domestic violence. The discussion also includes how Mendocino County compares with national statistics.
Project Sanctuary is a nonprofit that serves all of Mendocino County, providing shelter and services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The organization does not receive funding from the city of Fort Bragg or Mendocino County, relying primarily on state and federal sources. Roberts said she expects cuts to federal funding, which she noted will impact nonprofits of all kinds.
Project Sanctuary’s 24-hour hotlines are 707-964-4357 on the Coast and 707-463-4357 inland.