As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close, a new report highlights several challenges faced by victims and families touched by violence. The report indicates that although the rate of homicides overall has gone down, the rate of homicides associated with domestic violence has held steady. Additionally, the most dangerous time for victims is when they are leaving their abusive partners. Children who witness abuse are particularly vulnerable, experiencing trauma that can take a very long time to overcome. Sheriff Mike Williams spoke on the topic in October, urging victims to call for help the first time an incident of domestic violence occurs, in the hopes that future murders could be avoided. The sooner victims can be connected with assistance, the better.
Gail Patin, CEO of Hubbard House, had some words of advice to victims: “If your partner has ever threatened to kill you, threatened you with a weapon or you believe that he or she will kill you, you need help now,” Patin went on to say. “Please find a safe place, a safe phone and call the 24 hour hotline number, which is 1-800-500-1119, and you can speak to a trained advocate. Calls are confidential and the help is free. Let us help you leave safely. We believe you. We are here for you. You are not alone.”
For a link to the EJCT article and the complete data report on Domestic Violence, click here: http://news.wjct.org/post/report-domestic-violence-homicides-hold-steady-other-forms-homicide-fall
