California Domestic Abuse Victim Used ‘Hand Signals’ to Seek Help, Police Report

(KTLA) – A domestic violence suspect was arrested last month after his alleged victim used hand signals to get the attention of a bystander in Los Angeles County, police said.

Officers were initially sent to a 7-Eleven store in Alhambra, California, regarding a “suspicious circumstances” call, the Alhambra Police Department revealed in a recent Facebook post. Online records indicate the incident took place Aug. 19.

“During further investigation, it was determined that a domestic violence incident had occurred, and the victim was asking for help using hand signals behind her back,” the Alhambra Police Department wrote.

Video showing officers engaging with the suspect and victim inside the store was posted on the Police Department’s Facebook Reels page. Later in the video, the suspect is seen trying to run from police during questioning.

The man, identified as John Palombi, “didn’t even make it out of the parking lot,” police said. Palombi, who apparently had an active warrant and was in possession of a stun gun, was arrested and booked.

Online records from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department indicate Palombi is expected to appear in court on Sept. 18.

Police did not say which hand gestures the alleged victim used to indicate that she needed help, but organizations offering support to women and domestic violence victims have promoted the use of the “Signal for Help.” This gesture, created by the Canadian Women’s Foundation, is made by showing an open palm, then tucking your thumb inward and closing the rest of your 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.