Harrison becomes 9th West Virginia county to offer remote victim program

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — A program that allows victims of domestic violence and sexual assault to file petitions and attend hearings remotely is now being offered in Harrison County.

The Remote Victim Outreach Program gives victims an option to seek justice without having to physically face their alleged assailant, according to a press release from the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals . Previously, they have had to file petitions for domestic violence protective orders or personal safety orders and attend follow-up hearings in person.

The remote sessions will be offered from HOPE, Inc., which is located in downtown Clarksburg with court sessions between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays. On Thursday, Aug. 15, the program will be demonstrated to media and the public in Judge Lori B. Jackson’s courtroom in the Harrison County Courthouse, with employees from HOPE, Inc. appearing remotely to show how it works.

HOPE, Inc. can be reached during the workweek at 304-624-9835 or by a 24-hour hotline at: 304-367-1100.

A person who used the program in another county said the following about it:

“When I found out about the option provided at the Sexual Assault Help Center where I could participate virtually, my anxiety was significantly reduced, and I finally felt like I can do this, and things will get better. I’m very appreciative that this virtual option is available for individuals facing the unthinkable.”

Other counties that are already involved in the program are Cabell, Jefferson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mason, Ohio, Wayne and Wood.

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