On May 1, 2025, the Office of Community Safety took part in a training event aimed at informing and educating the community about stalking. The full-day event focused on understanding and responding to stalking, a crime that is often misunderstood and not adequately addressed.
The training featured sessions led by experts who provided attendees with tools to support survivors, identify stalking behaviors, and develop a coordinated community response. The event was hosted by Hon. Jacqueline Lucas, Prince William Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Judge, in collaboration with local law enforcement and legal organizations. It was supported by a grant from the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice.
“Stalking is a serious and complex crime that often goes unnoticed,” said Judge Jacqueline Lucas. “This training provides professionals with the knowledge and tools to make a real difference in victims’ lives.”
The presentations included several key topics:
– “Centering on Survivor Voices,” where Robert Buswell shared his personal experience within the criminal justice system after reporting sexual abuse nearly three decades later.
– “Stalking Prevalence, Dynamics, and Behaviors,” provided by the Stalking Prevention, Awareness & Resource Center (SPARC), explored context, tactics, and connections with domestic and sexual violence.
– “Use of Technology to Stalk,” where SPARC experts discussed how perpetrators use digital tools for harassment and control.
– “Coordinated Community Response,” which emphasized cross-sector collaboration to protect victims and seek justice.
Rachel Taylor, Domestic Violence Analyst for the PWC Office of Community Safety stated: “Hearing the stories and information that was presented today highlights how interconnected these issues are, and how vast a reach is needed across different individuals and agencies. It reinforces how important it is to coordinate across disciplines to keep our community safe.”
The training attracted victim advocates, law enforcement officers, attorneys, educators, among other professionals from Prince William County. The Office of Community Safety plans more prevention events to enhance safety in the county.
