New Technology to Help Save the Lives of Domestic Violence Victims

To better protect the nearly 30,000 people at high-risk for lethality in Pennsylvania – and in response to the 119 women killed last year in domestic violence homicides – Crisis Center North (CCN) and Nexion Solutions, in collaboration with Penn State University (PSU) faculty, is announcing a landmark new research endeavor around the implementation of a new technology-based solution to enhance the safety of domestic violence survivors.

CCN will collaborate with Nexion Solutions to provide a cohort of 60 domestic violence survivors at highest risk for lethality with the new technology, which – through cellular connectivity on Verizon’s best-in-class network – will provide them with immediate access to police and emergency services in the event of a violent altercation.

CCN will work with local law enforcement to implement the technology throughout Allegheny County, using a Lethality Assessment Program (LAP) and hospital intake assessment to ensure the technology is protecting those at highest risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is the technology? The technology is a disguised device that will allow its owner to immediately and discretely connect with law enforcement and emergency services in the event of a crisis. Due to the disguised nature of the device, an exact physical description is not available for owner safety purposes.

Q: How much does it cost to give a device to a high-risk victim? It costs $700 per total per device, including one year of service.

Q: How can I help bring this technology to Allegheny County? Crisis Center North is currently accepting donations from members of our community! You are our “Angel Investors.” Any donation, big or small, will help to bring this project to life in Allegheny County.