Manatee County Courthouse Honors Former Employees with New Safe Spaces for Domestic Violence Victims

Domestic violence affects more than 12 million people each year in the United States, and October is dedicated to raising awareness of the issue. At the Manatee County Courthouse, the impact is personal. Two former employees, Jazmin Catano and Erin Craft Jones, lost their lives to domestic violence. Their memory will now be honored through newly dedicated spaces within the courthouse designed to provide comfort and resources to those in need.

The courthouse recently unveiled Jazmin’s Nook and the Erin Craft Center, both of which are intended to serve as safe spaces for victims seeking help. The areas provide a calm and supportive environment for individuals navigating the challenges of leaving abusive relationships.

Catano joined the courthouse staff in 2013, briefly working in the criminal division before her life was cut short that same year. Jones began her career at the courthouse in 2006, spending more than a decade in the Traffic and Court Services division before relocating to Alabama in 2022. She was killed by a former partner later that year. Both women were mothers remembered for their commitment to helping others.

The dedication ceremony brought together courthouse staff, advocates, family, and friends to reflect on the lives of Catano and Jones, while also recognizing the importance of ensuring victims have access to safe and supportive spaces.

Local and national resources remain available for individuals experiencing domestic violence. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233 or by texting “BEGIN” to 88788. Regional hotlines include The Spring of Tampa Bay at (813) 247-7233, CASA Pinellas at (727) 895-4912, and SPARCC in Sarasota at (941) 365-1976.

Advocates emphasize that no one has to face a dangerous relationship alone and that help is available for those seeking safety and support.