(KTLA) – A domestic violence suspect was detained last month after his purported victim signaled to a bystander in Los Angeles County, according to police reports.
Officers were initially dispatched to a 7-Eleven store in Alhambra, California, following a “suspicious circumstances” alert, as shared in a recent Facebook post by the Alhambra Police Department. Online documents suggest the event occurred on Aug. 19.
“Upon further investigation, it was revealed that a domestic violence incident had transpired, and the victim was discreetly asking for assistance using hand signals behind her back,” stated the Alhambra Police Department.
A video capturing the interaction between officers, the suspect, and the victim in the store was uploaded to the Police Department’s Facebook Reels page. As the video proceeds, the suspect appears to attempt fleeing from the police during questioning.
The individual, identified as John Palombi, “didn’t even make it out of the parking lot,” authorities noted. Palombi, who seemingly had an active warrant and was carrying a stun gun, was subsequently arrested and booked.
Online records from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department indicate Palombi is expected to appear in court on Sept. 18.
The police did not specify which hand gestures the alleged victim employed to seek help, but organizations that support women and victims of domestic violence have advocated for the use of the “Signal for Help.” This indication, developed by the Canadian Women’s Foundation, involves displaying an open palm, then folding the thumb inward and closing the other fingers over the thumb to “trap” it.
Proponents say the gesture can be done in-person or via video chat, if the victim cannot speak freely or fears their devices are being monitored.
“It’s a simple one-handed gesture someone can use, without leaving a digital trace, to communicate they need someone to safely check in and support them,” the Canadian Women’s Foundation writes.
Domestic violence support organizations also urge onlookers to educate themselves on ways to recognize potential signs of abuse.
“The #SignalforHelp campaign offers a new tool for survivors, but it also teaches people who want to help, how to do so in a way that protects the safety and agency of the survivor,” the Women’s Funding Network writes.
“Now more than ever, we have to be vigilant and look out for each other.”
Victims of domestic violence or abuse can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE for resources of support, or reach out to the organization via text or online chat.
