The Carroll County state's attorney's domestic violence unit is appealing to businesses and residents for unused cellular phones to afford abuse victims immediate access to police help.

Gary Cofflin, special investigator, said the unit has about 100 active domestic violence cases, and the need is great to protect victims from further abuse.

"We are asking that anyone planning to upgrade a cellular phone to consider donating the old phone to the domestic violence unit," Cofflin said.

Even without being activated, a cellular phone can still be used to dial 911, which is a free service, he said.

Cofflin said two businesses have donated three phones to the state's attorney's office.

For information, call Cofflin at 410-386-2345, or Latisha Mayne, family violence coordinator, 410-386-2671.

Pub Date: 12/06/98