BROWNSVILLE – Law enforcement across the Rio Grande Valley are working to lower the number of domestic violence cases. They’re trying to do this by targeting the problem where it begins.

The Cameron County Domestic Violence Unit sees up to 1,200 cases a year, which is more than enough people to fill an auditorium.

Yvette Vela, with the district attorney’s office, spoke to Brownsville students about what a healthy relationship should look like. She says these presentations start the conversation with young people and give them the words to talk about what they may be going through.

National statistics show dating violence in young adults is a huge problem. One in three will experience physical, sexual, emotional or verbal abuse.

This effort is also being done in Hidalgo County.

Anyone in needing help regarding domestic violence can contact or visit the following locations:

Friendship of Women, Inc.
95 E. Price Road in Brownsville
956-544-7412

Family Crisis Center, Inc.
616 W. Taylor Avenue in Harlingen
956-423-9304

Mujeres Unidas
511 N. Cynthia Street in McAllen
956-630-4878

Cameron County Domestic Violence Unit
956-544-0849

Hidalgo County Crime Victim Assistance
956-292-7600

Starr County Department of Domestic Violence
956-716-4800 Ext. 8629

Watch the video above for the full report.