Somebody broke into the East Texas Crisis Center building in Athens this weekend and ransacked the offices, according to Executive Director Donna Johnson.
The alarm wires were cut and a back window broken in. At least two laptop computers were stolen along with some related electronics gear. Luckily there was very little cash in the building.
Also fortunately, the center’s confidential files were locked away and remained safe.
Even the phone lines were effected, and the center’s main phone number isn’t working. If you are trying to call the East Texas Crisis Center in Athens, please use the rollover number: 903-675-5882. You can also use the Crisis Center’s 24-hour hotline number, 800-333-0358.
The police are investigating and the women who work at the East Texas Crisis Center spent hours today putting the office back together.
Those are the facts, but the truth goes much deeper.
The people who work at the East Texas Crisis Center are dedicated to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. They help women (mostly) who have been violated.
Now they’ve been violated as well.
Burglary is a heinous crime at any time, but stealing from a place like the Crisis Center is like stealing from the poor box at church.
Many have already started to rally around the ladies at the Crisis Center and I hope the rest of the community follows their example. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.