Monroe Detective Honored For Advocacy Work With Domestic Violence Survivors

MONROE, CT — Det. Stacy Cascante of the Monroe Police Department is being recognized for her work with The Center for Family Justice, an organization that supports survivors of domestic and sexual violence across Fairfield County.

Cascante, a youth and special victims detective who joined the Monroe department four years ago after serving in Bridgeport, has long prioritized issues surrounding domestic violence and sexual assault. Her involvement with The Center for Family Justice (CFJ), headquartered in Bridgeport, has been central to her work in law enforcement.

“Domestic violence exists in every community,” Cascante said. “And until you really submerge yourself in it, you don’t realize what’s out there and available to survivors.”

CFJ provides coordinated services to victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and child abuse. Its support includes counseling, legal advocacy, and educational outreach, often in collaboration with law enforcement and state agencies. Cascante praised the organization for its deep community reach and its ability to connect victims with vital resources.

Earlier this year, CFJ honored Cascante for her contributions, including her leadership in Monroe’s annual “Stuff the Gazebo” toy drive. The event collects donated toys for children in families served by CFJ during the holidays. Cascante described delivering vanloads of gifts to CFJ as “wonderful,” adding that the effort reflects the strong support from Monroe residents.

“Deborah Greenwood [CFJ President & CEO] was very kind to recognize me,” Cascante said. “But it’s really about what we can do as a community, through law enforcement, to reach families who need us.”

Cascante also participates in CFJ’s multidisciplinary team, or MDT, which meets twice monthly to coordinate responses to active sexual assault cases across several towns. The meetings include representatives from the Department of Children and Families, prosecutors, and other law enforcement agencies. Together, they assess cases, refer victims to support services, and collaborate on investigations.

“Most of the cases we work on with CFJ are juvenile sexual assault cases,” Cascante said. “CFJ helps us figure out what services best fit each family’s needs. Whether it's trauma recovery or help from an agency like Love146 in cases of potential trafficking, they’re the experts on the right path forward.”

Beyond case management, Cascante emphasized the importance of emotional and psychological support for victims, who may carry the effects of abuse long after legal proceedings conclude.

“Our job isn’t just about making arrests,” she said. “It’s about understanding what victims are going through and making sure they’re supported from day one and for the rest of their lives.”

Cascante encouraged residents who may be facing domestic violence, sexual assault, or child abuse to seek help, either through the Monroe Police Department or by contacting CFJ’s confidential hotline.

“If someone doesn’t feel comfortable calling police directly, CFJ is always there,” she said. “There’s always someone willing to listen, to help navigate the situation, and to make sure no one has to go through it alone.”

Cascante has been in law enforcement for nine years and lives in Milford with her two children. Her youngest just graduated high school.

CFJ’s 24/7 hotline can be reached at 203-384-9559.