The Domestic Violence Unit (859-258-3690) investigates reports of domestic violence involving adult victims, offer agency referrals and provide assistance for such things as filing reports and obtaining emergency protective orders against their abusers. Domestic violence means physical injury, sexual abuse, assault, or the infliction of fear of the aforementioned between certain family members or members of an unmarried couple. Also included is the destruction of property, as a method of coercion, control, revenge, punishment, or the threat thereof.

Report abuse by calling the 24 hour hotline at: 255-9808 or 1-800-544-2022.

• If you are a victim, see that your children are safe. You can call the YWCA Spouse Abuse Center for shelter and information at 255-9808. Call the police for protection, the abuser can be arrested without a warrant. Get medical attention, records, and photos of your injuries. You can file a criminal complaint and/or Petition for a Domestic Violence Protective Order through
  Fayette District Court
  136 North Martin Luther King Blvd.
  246-2248
  Your abuser can be ordered to leave the shared home, refrain from further acts of violence, and/or refrain from destroying joint property. The abuser may be arrested for violation of a protective order of conditions of release after arrest. Contact the Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children in Fayette County to assist you and your family in obtaining protective and support service at 246-2276.

The Elder and Mental Abuse Unit investigates reports of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of older persons. Assistance is provided against maltreatment, referrals to mental health and medical professional as well as victim's advocates.

Report abuse to Adult Protection Services at:
258-3810 or 246-2276.

• Elder Abuse is the maltreatment or neglect of an adult 60 years of age or older usually by a relative or other caregiver in the form of physical abuse, psychological abuse, financial exploitation and neglect. Victims are usually women, elderly persons dependent on the caregiver for basic needs and elderly persons suffering from physical or mental illness. The extent of elder abuse is not completely known and it is estimated only 1 in 4 elder abuse incidents come to the attention of the authorities since most are not reported.

The Crimes Against Children Unit investigates the physical and sexual abuse of children, crimes involving a child victim, and missing children, all under the age of 18. If you know or suspect child abuse or neglect report it to your local child protection agency 24 hour hotline at 246-2282. Outside Fayette County call 1-800-752-6200. Your report can be anonymous.

• Any child can be a victim of abuse. As a community we are all responsible for the safety and well-being of our children. As parents, teachers, neighbors, family and friends, we must all work together to protect the right of every child to live in a safe environment. Many services exist in Lexington-Fayette County to prevent abuse, and to help child abuse victims, survivors, and perpetrators to break the cycle of abuse and begin the healing process.