Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Laurel and Jones County community

LAUREL, Miss. - October is a special month that both the Laurel and Jones County community want to bring attention to.

Mayor Johnny Magee signed a proclamation dedicating this month as Domestic Violence Awareness month.

Members of the community were touched by Mayor Magee's passion to bring awareness to this issue.

Victims advocate, Melicia Cooper said, "The goal is to let people that is victims of domestic violence to let them know that we're here to help them. We're here to show them which way they need to go, either to the police department or to the county. We need to let them know that they have a voice. They have people here that's willing to stand up for their rights, to help them during their time of abuse."

If you are a victim of domestic violence and want to seek help, you can contact the Laurel Police Department or the Jones County Sheriff's Department.