San Luis Police Chief becomes first Governor-appointed commission member in south county
News 11's Adonis Albright speaks with the Police Chief about his ongoing advocacy efforts for victims of domestic violence
San Luis, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - San Luis Polce Chief Richard Jessup made history as the department's first chief to be appointed by Arizona Governor Doug Ducey to the Commission to Prevent Violence Against Women. As a long-time advocate for victims of domestic violence, Chief Jessup says this is a step forward for south county residents.
“I think it means quite a bit for the local community to have somebody that represents south county", said Chief Jessup.
Chief Jessup signed an oath of loyalty to the commission earlier this year, and the process was finalized in February. The commission works to shape legislation and provide more resources for victims of domestic violence. It also champions prevention initiatives for violence.
“As a commission, are there things that we can do, or are there things that we can bring locally in a training aspect for law enforcement to help deal with violence against women. That really would be my main goal.”
As a board member of Amberly's Place, Chief Jessup is no stranger to advocating on behalf of victims. According to the local advocacy center in Yuma, there was a 6% jump in the number of victims seeking services from 2019 to 2020. Now, in the first few months of 20-21, there's only been a slight increase in reported instances. However, the organization says this is perhaps because some victims are afraid to come forward about their situation.
The Chief was also asked to serve on the Governor's human trafficking task force. It's a role he's taking great pride in to serve his community at large.
“In the day and age that we’re living in, being compassionate as a police officer and treating people like people needs to be at the forefront of what we do."
