Larimer County Sheriff's Office Urges Awareness of Domestic Violence Support During National Recognition Month

The Larimer County Sheriff's Office reminded residents October 7 that domestic violence victims are never at fault for abuse, emphasizing available support resources as part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The agency's message highlighted warning signs of abusive relationships, including constant anxiety, disregard for personal feelings and safety, lack of trust or respect, restrictions on personal freedom, pressure for unwanted sexual activity, and any form of physical, emotional, sexual or digital abuse.

"Abuse is never the victim's fault," the sheriff's office stated. "Abusers often try to manipulate and control by shifting blame — but you are not to blame."

The October awareness campaign follows a September 30 domestic violence homicide in Fort Collins that resulted in two deaths, underscoring the serious consequences of domestic violence in Northern Colorado communities.

Local Support Services Available 24 Hours

Larimer County residents experiencing domestic violence have access to immediate assistance through multiple organizations providing free, confidential services.

Alternatives to Violence serves Southern Larimer County and Loveland with emergency shelter, advocacy, safety planning, and educational resources. The organization provides comprehensive support regardless of whether victims choose to leave their situations immediately.

A Woman's Place operates a crisis line at 970-356-4226, offering housing assistance for victims who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Services include help with housing searches and community referrals.

The Larimer County Sheriff's Office Victim Response Team provides on-scene assistance, emotional support, and resource referrals. The team can be reached at 970-498-5149 at 200 West Oak Street in Fort Collins.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers crisis intervention nationwide at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), with trained advocates available around the clock.

For immediate danger situations, residents should call 911. The sheriff's office non-emergency number is 970-416-1985.

Protection Orders Provide Legal Safety Measures

Colorado law provides protective legal options for domestic violence victims through restraining orders enforceable statewide and nationwide.

Victims can apply for a Temporary Restraining Order at local civil courts, providing immediate protection for up to 14 days. The temporary order takes effect once served to the respondent and remains valid while victims pursue permanent protection.

A Permanent Restraining Order requires a court hearing with both parties present, where judges evaluate evidence to determine whether long-term protection is necessary. The duration of permanent orders is determined by the judge based on the circumstances, except for orders involving children, which last no more than 120 days.

Evidence for restraining orders includes the victim's detailed account of abuse incidents, witness testimony when available, and documentation of threatening behavior or violence. Courts prioritize victim safety when evaluating protection order requests.

Violating restraining orders constitutes a crime, allowing immediate arrest of offenders. Victims should contact police immediately if respondents violate protection orders, with contempt proceedings available if criminal charges are not filed.

Regional Response Coordinates Multiple Agencies

The sheriff's office coordinates with multiple agencies to provide comprehensive domestic violence response throughout Larimer and Weld Counties.

Law enforcement agencies investigate domestic violence reports, collect evidence, and pursue criminal charges against offenders when appropriate. Officers receive training in domestic violence dynamics and victim trauma to improve response effectiveness.

Advocacy organizations work alongside law enforcement to ensure victims receive immediate support services, safety planning assistance, and connections to longer-term resources including housing, legal aid, and counseling.

All domestic violence support organizations emphasize confidentiality and safety planning as core components of their services, recognizing that victims face heightened danger when leaving abusive relationships.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month began in October 1989 as a national effort to raise awareness about domestic violence and support survivors. The annual observance encourages communities to promote prevention, education, and assistance for those affected by intimate partner violence.

The sheriff's office emphasized that everyone deserves to feel safe and loved in relationships, stating simply: "Love doesn't hurt."