On November 14, 2021, Marisa Vicosa approached police in East York after escaping a horrific situation involving her estranged husband, former Baltimore County officer Robert Vicosa. Robert had lured her to their old family home under the pretense of celebrating her birthday with their daughters, Gianna, 7, and Aaminah, 6. Instead, he and his girlfriend, fellow officer Tia Bynum, bound, drugged, and tortured Marisa, with Robert repeatedly sexually assaulting her and threatening to kill her and their children.

Marisa obtained an emergency protection order. Officers were prepared to execute the order immediately, but the police chief overrode their decision and delayed its execution until the next day. By then, Robert had fled with his daughters and Bynum, sparking a manhunt. Tragically, as police closed in, he killed his daughters and Bynum before taking his own life. The incident led to a $3 million settlement and raised serious concerns about law enforcement's handling of protective orders and domestic violence cases.

Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders, also known as restraining orders, are an essential tool in protecting victims of domestic violence abuse. The Family Law Team at the LLF Law Firm has helped numerous families with domestic violence issues, and we're ready to help you, too. Call our experienced legal team at 888-535-3686 or contact us online.

York County PFA Reforms

In the wake of this tragic case, York County has implemented comprehensive reforms to improve how law enforcement and support agencies handle domestic violence cases. District Attorney Dave Sunday announced that, following an independent review, the county worked closely with police, courts, human service agencies, and even the YWCA to assess its processes. The central aspect of the reforms focuses on improving the response to emergency PFA orders. York County ranks in the top 10 Pennsylvania counties for issuing PFAs, with 1,694 filed last year. The goal of these initiatives is to strengthen evidence in domestic violence cases and improve victim safety.

One significant change includes a streamlined PFA process that prioritizes quick, safe service of court orders. Police are also now required to conduct "lethality assessments" to assess the immediate danger posed by alleged abusers. Training for police, prosecutors, and related agencies has expanded, along with 24-hour hotlines and victim transportation to court to secure emergency PFAs.

The county has also partnered with the York County Bar Association to provide early legal assistance for victims. New "kiosk" satellite offices and an office at the Campus for Justice and Wellness aim to make filing for PFAs more accessible.

Finally, York County also contracted eBodyGuard, a company that provides an app that helps victims collect and securely store evidence. Created by abuse survivor Melissa Faith Hart, this app enables users to record video and audio evidence that is accessible to law enforcement.

Hire Experienced Pennsylvania PFA Lawyers

PFA orders have immense and lasting consequences for the entire family. If you seek a PFA or one has been filed against you, contact the experienced lawyers of the LLF Law Firm Family Law Team today. Call us at 888.535.3686 today or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We're ready to answer your questions about PFAs and help you find the best possible outcome for your situation.