Senator Stavisky Commends Governor Cuomo for Approving Expanded Powers to Family and Criminal Courts to Combat Domestic Violence

Flushing, NY—Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Flushing) commended Governor Cuomo for signing into law a bill which empowers family and criminal courts to order domestic abusers to return financial control and credit and debit cards to protected parties.

“Domestic abuse is a crime that pervades all aspects of a family’s life from the outward scars of physical abuse to the inward violence of emotional and financial abuse. Wielding financial power over a family member is one of many ways that abusers attack their victims and this law will empower New York’s family and criminal courts to return financial power and independence to victims of abuse,” said Senator Stavisky.

Domestic abuse takes many forms including physical, psychological, and economic abuse. Signed into law on December 18, S.5821 adds identity theft, larceny and coercion to those offenses over which criminal and family courts have concurrent jurisdiction in cases involving family or household members.

“By giving family and criminal courts the power to return financial control and autonomy to the victims, I hope more victims will feel empowered to come forward and seek help. Especially among immigrant families with delicate financial situations, it is critically important that families know that their financial wellbeing will be protected if they break their silence,” concluded Senator Stavisky.