In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Attorney General Ashley Moody, local county clerks and sheriffs today announced the expansion of Project Protect into Manatee and Hardee counties. Florida law enforcement agencies received nearly 104,000 reports of domestic violence in 2021, resulting in more than 63,000 arrests. Project Protect provides doorbell cameras to survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and other crimes free of charge to help survivors feel more secure at home.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “It is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and we are expanding an important program to help survivors feel more secure at home. Starting today, our Project Protect is available in Manatee and Hardee counties, and survivors of domestic violence in these counties can now access free doorbell cameras to watch over their residences. Through this program, we can help survivors feel more secure and build a Stronger, Safer Florida.”

Hardee County Sheriff Vent Crawford said, “The Hardee County Sheriff’s Office is happy to partner with Project Protect. Together, we can break the cycle of domestic violence and provide safety within our homes and communities. Our agency is committed to bringing awareness where homes are free from fear.”