More than 12 million women and men are affected by physical violence, stalking by an intimate partner, or rape over the course of a year.
Domestic violence affects millions, both women and men, of every race, religion, culture and status. It’s not just punches and bruises — it’s screaming, humiliation, stalking, manipulation, coercion, threats and isolation. It’s financial control, controlling internet use, non-stop texting, or putting the other down. Domestic abuse comes in many forms.
There are many reasons a victim may stay in abusive relationships but among them are fear, the belief that abuse is normal, and embarrassment and shame.
Abuse is about power and control, so one of the most important ways you can help a person in an abusive relationship is to consider how you might empower them to make their own decisions. Other ways you can help:
- Acknowledge their situation and be supportive and listen
- Be non-judgmental
- Encourage them to participate in activities with friends and family
- Help them develop a safety plan
- Encourage them to speak with professionals who can provide help and guidance
Every October, the nation takes a stand against Domestic Violence and rededicates themselves to breaking the cycle.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office works diligently year round to stop violence of all types. However, we introduced the Domestic Violence Unit where the goal of the unit and its members is to reduce the prevalence of violence in the community. The Domestic Violence Investigator works with patrol deputies and the State Attorney’s Office to see that incidents of domestic abuse are properly followed up on and, if possible, prosecuted fully. The Domestic Violence Unit monitors repeat or “High Risk” Domestic Violence Offenders which are those that have committed serious violent acts or shown a prevalence for violence. The purpose of this monitoring system/protocol is to change the behavior of the offender by removing their anonymity and putting them on notice. It also creates swift, certain and predictable consequences for offending in Charlotte County and allows the offender to make a rational choice as to whether to re-offend.
Nearly three out of four Americans personally know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence. Now is the time to take a stand. Support survivors and speak out against domestic violence.
National Domestic Abuse Hotline 1-800-799-7233
Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office 941-639-2101
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