RPD Officer Serves to Fight Domestic Violence

One member of the Rochester Police Department says he serves in hopes of battling domestic violence. Officer Bing Reaves, Jr. says he joined the force in honor of his his sister Jamila, who was killed by her ex-husband.

"Right over my heart," he said.

That's where Officer Bing Reaves, Jr. keeps his sister's picture while on the job.

"Just to remind myself," he said. "Sometimes during domestic calls I show people - this is my sister and I do know what they're dealing with."

On November 23, 2003 Jamila's ex-husband shot her in the head during a custody exchange. It happened in front of their 4-year old son outside of a Walmart near Norfolk, VA. She was only 26-years-old.

"I felt helpless and that was probably one of the worst feelings I've ever felt in my entire life," Officer Reaves said.

Now he serves to honor Jamila.

"I think it's an excellent way of doing that," his Father Bing Reaves, Sr. said. "By helping somebody not fall into the situation that she fell into."

Officer Reaves deals with domestic violence cases on a regular basis. He also works with the Rochester Police Department's domestic violence program.

On the streets, he tells women how Jamila was able to leave her abuser.

"I want to help convey that people can help themselves," he said. "(They) can get out of this situation."

By sharing Jamila's story he hopes he helps another family forge a better future.

Alternatives for Battered Women
http://www.abwrochester.org/

City of Rochester Domestic Violence Page
http://www.cityofrochester.gov/domesticviolence/

Rochester Monroe County Domestic Violence Consortium
http://www.rmcdvc.org/

Safe Journey
http://www.safejourney.org/