DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROBLEMS HIGH IN CALHOUN - "Elephant In Living Room"

(11/01/2013)

Domestic violence is a frequently committed crime in Calhoun and most West Virginia counties. In Calhoun, 25 family violence protection orders have been issued so far this year. Calhoun Prosecutor Shannon Johnson said, "These are difficult cases for everyone involved for numerous reasons. I'm proud to be a part of the great STOP Team here in Calhoun County working on these issues." Because of the social stigma and privacy laws, domestic violence incidents often remain hidden from the public's attention. It is an "elephant in the living room" problem that is impossible to overlook, threatening the fabric of relationships. Victims often feel guilty when its' reported, and frequently withdraw their compliant to continue a cycle of abuse. In West Virginia, about one person dies every 13 days in a domestic violence related death. A recent WV study shows that women in the Mountain State are more likely to be victims of violent-related homicide, while the men who commit the violent acts are more likely to kill themselves afterward. In 2011, Lori Fleagle, who heads Calhoun's Domestic Abuse STOP Team, says about 300 domestic violence cases are reported to her agency every year, an average over 14 years. "There is much to be done with public education," Fleagle said, helping the abused and the abuser to get help. Fleagle said so far this year her agency helped 148 clients and 122 secondary clients, that being children or others living in the home. If you are being abused there is help, please call 304-354-9254 or 24 hour hot line 1-800-794-2335

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