Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence (1.07
Mpeg Video Clip)
Domestic violence is a
serious national problem which affects millions of households. It crosses all
cultural, racial, religious, and economic boundaries. Statistics indicate that
50-60% of the estimated 47 million couples in this country have suffered at
least one violent incident, and 10-25% suffer domestic violence as a common
occurrence.
The victims of domestic
violence are primarily women and their children. It has been documented that
domestic violence is the single major cause of injury to women, exceeding
rapes, muggings, and even auto accidents. According to the FBI, 25% of all
murders nationwide are the result of domestic violence and 30% of all female
homicide victims are killed by their husbands or boyfriends.
Physical abuse of a spouse
has been documented in nearly half of all the validated cases of child abuse
and neglect . Statistics overwhelmingly
demonstrate that all communities are seriously affected by domestic violence.
If you are in a violent home environment you are not alone!
The Wayne Police
Department recommends the following:
·
Report an act of
violence to the police. Call 9-1-1 if you are in immediate danger.
The operator will ask you questions in order to determine the nature of the
emergency and provide the best possible response. To report an incident after
danger has subsided, call 375-2626.
·
Don't be reluctant to
have the police arrest your spouse. Studies show that when the police arrest a
suspect for domestic violence, the offender is less likely to assault the
victim again. The police are required, by law, to arrest a suspected batterer
when the victim shows visible marks.
·
Talk to a trained
professional to discuss what options are available to you.
Help for domestic
violence is available from:
·
Haven House at
375-4633 (24 hours)
·
Wayne Police
Department 375-2626
