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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to stand together, raise our voices, and remind every person in our city that safety begins with support.
At the Brookhaven Police Department, we see firsthand how silence can isolate victims and how awareness can change lives. Domestic violence isn’t always visible, and it doesn’t always look the same, but every act of control, fear, or harm has one thing in common: it thrives in silence.

This month, we’re focused on breaking that silence.
We want survivors to know: you are not alone.
We want neighbors to know: you can help.
And we want our community to know: we all have a role to play in ending abuse.

Whether it’s learning the warning signs, starting a conversation, or sharing local resources, small actions can save lives.

Let’s stand together for safety, healing, and hope. Because in Brookhaven, no one should ever face violence alone.

– Brookhaven Police Department

It often starts quietly, a raised voice, a phone checked without permission, a friend who seems to disappear more often. Sometimes it’s brushed off as “jealousy” or “just a bad argument.” But small patterns can grow into powerful forms of control.

That’s the truth about relationship abuse: it doesn’t always begin with violence, and it doesn’t always look the same. At its core, it’s about power and control, one person using fear, manipulation, or intimidation to dominate another.

Abuse can take many forms:

Emotional: Insults, humiliation, or threats that break confidence and isolate.

Financial: Controlling money, access to work, or resources.

Digital: Tracking messages or using technology to monitor or harass.

Physical or Sexual: Using force, intimidation, or unwanted contact.

Every type of abuse is serious, and no one deserves to experience it. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts. Talk to someone. Help is always available.

Brookhaven Police officers and our community partners are trained to recognize the signs and connect individuals to the right support. You don’t have to have all the answers, you just have to reach out.

Because recognizing the signs isn’t just about prevention; it’s about protecting hope, restoring safety, and reminding every person that they are worthy of respect and peace.

If you or someone you know may be in an abusive relationship: 📞 Call 911 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) 🌐 Local Resources: www.mosaicgeorgia.org.

This year’s Faith & Blue Health & Wellness Fair was more than a Saturday event, it was a picture of what happens when community comes together with one heart and one goal: to care for one another.

Families, local organizations, and Brookhaven officers filled Northeast Plaza with laughter, connection, and purpose. Together, we turned togetherness, wellness, food, and fun into something powerful…community well-being.

Attendees enjoyed free resources, fitness and salsa classes, mental health support, music, games, and snacks, all while connecting with the officers who serve them daily. Our incredible vendors and partners provided education, encouragement, and tangible tools to help residents lead healthier, safer lives.

The Brookhaven Police Department extends heartfelt thanks to every vendor, partner, and resident who showed up, your presence turned a simple fair into a living example of Faith & Blue in action.

Together, we’re building a healthier, more connected Brookhaven, one relationship at a time.

Did you know that 1 in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year and nearly 90% of them witness it firsthand?

When violence happens at home, it doesn’t just affect adults. Children see it, hear it, and feel it and that trauma can follow them long after the moment has passed.
Studies have linked childhood exposure to domestic violence with anxiety, depression, and even long-term health issues.

If you’re a parent or caregiver living in fear, please know this: help is available for you and for your children. Reaching out is the first step toward healing, safety, and stability.

You are not alone.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Text: “START” to 88788
Local Support: livesaferesources.org | 770-427-3390
Find a YWCA near you: ywca.org

Every child deserves a home where they feel safe, seen, and loved.
Let’s work together to make that the norm, not the exception.

#StopDomesticViolence #PublicSafety #ProtectAndServe

You asked… we answer.

Ever pulled up to a traffic light that’s completely dark or flashing and wondered what to do? Here’s the breakdown:

Blacked-Out Traffic Light: If all the lights are out due to a power failure, treat the intersection like a four-way stop. That means you stop first, look both ways, and proceed only when you know it’s safe and other vehicles or pedestrians have also stopped.

Flashing Yellow Light: This is your signal to slow down and proceed with caution. It’s a reminder to be alert'; not a green light to keep your normal speed.

Flashing Red Light: Think of this one as a stop sign in disguise. Stop completely, check for oncoming traffic, and proceed only when it’s clear and safe to do so.

And just to clear up a common myth: Yellow does NOT mean “speed up.” It means prepare to stop safely.

Safe driving keeps everyone moving and a little patience at the light goes a long way in keeping Brookhaven safe.

If you are interested in volunteering or would like Brookhaven Police to join one of your events or engagements, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]

📍 Location: Brookhaven Municipal Court, 1793 Briarwood Rd
📅 Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays in October
🕓 Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

This month, the Brookhaven Police Department and Brookhaven Municipal Court are partnering to offer residents a second chance through the October Court Amnesty Program.

If you have outstanding violations or active bench warrants, you can resolve them without fear of arrest and begin restoring your driving privileges.

Payments accepted: cash, money order, cashier’s check, or card (no personal checks).

For more info, contact (404) 637-0660 or [email protected].

📍 Meet at Briarwood Road Trailhead
1793 Briarwood Road NE
📅 Every Wednesday, starting September 24
🕕 6:00 PM

Lace up and hit the trail! The Peachtree Creek Greenway Run/Walk Club is open to all fitness levels. Participants can run or walk up to 3 miles at their own pace.

Whether you’re looking to stay fit, make new friends, or just enjoy the beautiful Greenway, this is a great way to stay active and connect with your neighbors. All are welcome!

Join the Brookhaven Police Department at the Brookhaven International Festival, a two-day celebration of culture, connection, and community pride!
Enjoy live performances, art, music, international cuisine, and family-friendly activities representing the many cultures that make Brookhaven home.

📍 Location: Corporate Square | 1801 Corporate Boulevard NE at the Peachtree Creek Greenway
📅 Date: October 18–19, 2025
🕓 Time: Saturday 11–6 p.m. | Sunday 11–6 p.m. (5K Race 8-10am)

Bring your family, meet your neighbors, and experience the world without leaving Brookhaven.
Visit our BPD booth for safety resources, giveaways, and great conversation — because every culture, every voice, and every story helps make our city stronger.

Learn more at BrookhavenGA.gov/Intl-Fest

Download our Brookhaven Police App to stay in the know while you are on the go.

Here’s how to help safely and effectively:

1. Listen without judgment.
Let them share their story at their own pace. Avoid asking “why” questions that can sound blaming. Just being heard can be life-changing.

2. Offer support, not solutions.
You can’t fix the situation, but you can walk beside them. Remind them they’re not alone and that help is available.

3. Share resources.
Give them the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) or local support through Mosaic Georgia. Encourage them to reach out when it feels safe.

4. Never confront the abuser.
This can escalate danger for both you and the victim. Focus on helping them create a safety plan instead.

5. Call 911 in emergencies.
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, contact police right away. Safety must always come first.

You don’t have to be an expert to make an impact, just a caring neighbor who’s willing to speak up and reach out.
Together, we can make Brookhaven a place where safety, dignity, and trust always come first.

Strength isn’t just about standing tall, sometimes, it’s about reaching out. This month, as we shine a light on Domestic Violence Awareness, we’re reminded that healing begins when we decide to see one another, listen to one another, and care for one another.

Every safe home, every helping hand, every conversation of courage adds up to a stronger Brookhaven. When we show up for our neighbors, when we check in, speak up, and stand beside those in pain, we don’t just prevent violence. We build trust. We build community. We build hope.

So let’s keep showing up, with compassion, courage, and connection. Because that’s what makes Brookhaven strong.

Have a Question? We’ve Got Answers!
This section answers questions submitted by our community. Here’s one we received recently:

Q: What should I do if I suspect a friend or neighbor is being abused?
A: Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Check in with the person privately, listen without judgment, and share resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233). If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Q: Can men be victims of domestic violence, too?
A: Absolutely. Abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, age, or background. No one deserves to be controlled, threatened, or hurt.

Q: What if I’m not ready to leave an abusive relationship?
A: That’s okay. Safety planning is a process. Advocates can help you prepare, find safe spaces, and access confidential support even before you make a decision to leave. You are not alone.

Q: How does Brookhaven Police respond to domestic violence calls?
A: Our officers are trained to handle these calls with compassion, discretion, and care.

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out:
📞 National Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 | Text “START” to 88788

Got a question? Submit it here, and we might feature it in the next issue!