Domestic Violence

Overview

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 from 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!

Recommendations

• 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. 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 Is Available

Help is available 24 hours per day, every day from the Wayne Police Department (402-375-2626) and Haven House (402-375-4633).