Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Flaherty, Jr. announces that Erie County Hall will be illuminated in the color purple to “Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” throughout the month of October. 

This is the first time Erie County Hall has turned purple, the symbolic color for domestic violence awareness. The purpose is to get the community talking about domestic violence and to let victims know they’re not alone, and that resources are available. 

“Erie County Hall is the place where many domestic violence survivors seek help and fight for justice against their abusers,” says acting Erie County District Attorney Flaherty. “By bathing this grand building in the color purple, we are recognizing the struggle victims endure every day and show we are a beacon of hope, providing safety and security in their lives.” 

There have been six domestic violence homicides to date in Erie County this year.  In 2015, there were seven domestic violence homicides and 5,768 domestic violence victims reported by police in Erie County. 

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office’s BE-SAFE domestic violence advocacy program is among the largest in Western New York serving domestic violence survivors. Our program is made up of domestic violence advocates and social workers who can assist victims both in and out of court. Those who need help can call (716) 858-4630.  The 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline for Erie County is (716) 862-HELP (4357). 

Joining acting DA Flaherty in support of this cause are his law enforcement partners, including Sheriff Timothy Howard, Buffalo Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda, Erie County Probation Commissioner Brian Mclaughlin and members of the Erie County Coalition Against Family Violence who help fight this scourge in our society every day. 

“It’s a wonderful idea to light County Hall in Purple during Domestic Violence Awareness month.  First and foremost, this act honors and supports the victims of Domestic Violence, while also bringing attention to the problem and illuminating the work being done county-wide by the Erie County Coalition Against Family Violence, “says Brian McLaughlin, Commissioner of Erie County Probation.  “The Probation Department is pleased to join with the District Attorney’s office and our other partners in the coalition who work tirelessly to prevent Domestic Violence and support its victims year ‘round.” 

Acting DA Flaherty also credits the Erie County Department of Public Works under Commissioner John Loffredo and specifically, Buildings and Grounds Deputy Commissioner Daniel Fitzgibbons who worked so diligently to make the project possible. 

The “Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” campaign which is taking place in communities all across New York this month is coordinated by the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence.