Billboard Campaign Launched Against Sheriff Mirkarimi
A San Francisco-based domestic violence advocacy group has launched a billboard campaign against embattled San Francisco Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi, who is facing domestic violence charges stemming from an argument with his wife on New Year’s Eve.
La Casa de las Madres, a domestic violence victims shelter, raised the necessary $4,000 to have the billboard placed near the Hall of Justice in the South of Market neighborhood. The group is now looking to raise another $2,500 for a second billboard in Spanish. The billboard has a simple message, “Domestic violence is never a private matter,” using words straight out of Mirkarimi’s mouth as he said that what he and his wife were going through was a private matter during his inauguration ceremony.
Mirkarimi was arrested last month and charged with misdemeanor domestic violence battery, child endangerment and dissuading a witness. During the December 31 argument with his wife, Eliana Lopez, he allegedly grabbed and bruised her arm.
Both Mirkarimi and Lopez deny the claims as the trial is set to get underway on February 24. Lopez is expected to testify in the trial.
Just last week, the judge in the case granted Mirkarimi limited visitation rights to see his young son Theo. A stay-away order is still in place in regards to his wife.
