October 17, 2012

DV Awareness Month???

Once again it's October...& once again I see nothing but pink!  Don't get me wrong, I'm glad to see it, my Mother is a breast cancer survivor, but it just really makes me jealous at times & sooo mad that there is no purple!  So far, I haven't even heard it mentioned that it is awareness month!

I was talking to a survivor on the phone earlier in the month, & she felt so forgotten & mad that DV wasn't even being mentioned anywhere, & that most of the population doesn't even know it's DV Awareness Month.  The problem is too, that most don't even know that purple is the awareness color!

DV feeds off of isolation & the lack of information.

That right there is the thought that got me up at 5 something in the a.m. & figuring out how to blog from the phone & give my thumbs some early morning excercising.  DV feeds off of isolation & the lack of informtion...oh & let's not forget mis-information!  DV victims & survivors feel so alone in their fight, & for those that are healing the lack of DV ever being mentioned, mostly during DV Awereness Month, it's a hard pill to swallow.

So here's my thought for this a.m. ... what is the DV community going to do to change this?  What can we as Survivors as a whole do about this?  I have some thoughts...would love to hear yours!

August 16, 2012

Cocooned in Isolation…

Sometimes the silence, sometimes the time we take for ourselves away from others is what is needed. Instead of fighting against it, take that time to spend with yourself and find you again...

Cocooned in Isolation

About Marital Rape up on LC Library

There is Rape within Marriages! My x-husband would rape me, at the time I didn't see it as rape exactly, just something I didn't want. I didn't realize that him forcing sex on me, or taking advantage of me while on medications and/or asleep

was a sickness, was indeed rape. It really didn't fully hit me until about last month how sick it was when I found out my x-husband is in jail for pedophilia. I'm understanding better now that those that take sexual advantages of someone within a marriage or relationship has a sickness that extends that relationship/situation. Those that rape are sick! They need help, they need to be locked up so that they don't hurt someone else. Know that if you've gone through Marital Rape, it isn't your fault! It isn't your shame to carry around! Put the blame where it belongs and heal...

Le Chrysalis Library: About Marital Rape

July 17, 2012

NOMORE.org Racing Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

Grabbed off of FB, and loving it!  Great to see a DV & SA Organization on one of the cars!  Way to go No More.org!!!

NoMoreCar

First glimpse! Car No. 24 emblazoned with the NOMORE.org symbol! Please share and show support for Angela & Amber Cope as Angela race's to end domestic violence and sexual assault this weekend! Together, we can make a real difference.

An Abuse Survivor's Search for Support

By: Marci Manley, KARK 4 News

Updated: July 16, 2012

Video Available on original article

"Since I left a domestic violence relationship in March, it's been really hard," she said, reading from the screen.


Dana has been searching for support in Little Rock after leaving an abusive relationship that lasted two and a half years.


"I still have nightmares every night, and I'm scared, she said. "I'm always looking around. If my children run up on me, wanting to play, I jump."


Finding a support group of women, outside of a shelter living situation, has been tough. Dana believed deciding to leave the abuse behind would have been the hardest part.


"Once you've made that decision, it's not over. It's important to leave, but it's also important to have support once you've left, instead of people saying here's a phone number and you falling through the cracks. That's what I felt like happened to me," she said. "Every time I would call the numbers, it was the same thing that support groups were only available to those residing in the shelter facilities."
Instead of giving up, Dana checked out. A book that is, written by another survivor. Mildred Muhammad is the ex-wife of the man known as the D.C. Sniper. Before his 10-person killing spree, his violence began in their home.


"I checked out the book and there were a lot of things in there I could identify with," Dana said. "Ms. Muhammad's email was in the book, and I decided to write her."


That memoir marked a turning point. Dana never expected a response, from Mildred Muhammad. But she got one.


"She sent my email to someone else, and my phone started ringing almost instantly last week.," Dana said.


"It's been difficult to get victims in touch with resources, and here recently it seems to have gotten more difficult," said Community Outreach Coordinator Meredith Looney of Women and Children First. "There are so many shelters that offer so many services, sometimes there's confusion."


Domestic violence organizations like hers know getting the right information to survivors can be a challenge, especially with staff turnovers.
"We do have staff turnover and we train the best we can, but if someone forgets that we have outreach programs for people who don't stay at our shelter, they might tell someone that. Then, that creates confusion," Looney said. "But we do have those resources and we do want survivors to be able to use them."


Women and Children First offers an whole host of support groups held throughout the week.


"They can be really comforting," Looney said. "Getting into these groups allows you to plug yourself into the reality that you're not the only one, you're not stuck."


"You still feel embarrassed, ashamed, and lonely," Dana said. "And I think being with a group of survivors who have been there would be good for me. Understanding how they're coping, and what they are going through. I don't want to feel alone."


After four months, Dana is plugged into the Women and Children First's program, and she's hoping other women find the help to heal as well.
"I needed help, and I'm sure there are other women in that situation who called," Dana said. "Hopefully they'll know the support is there."


To see the complete list of support groups offered by Women and Children First, click here.

July 9, 2012

Ride to Remember Bike Run

Another great snag off of FB today…

Domestic Violence Crisis Center
We are selling raffle tickets as part of our Ride to Remember Bike Run. The Run is on August 25th, but you do NOT need to be present to win. The tickets are $10.00 and the prizes are
1st: 50" LG TV
2nd: $300.00 Spa Package at Journey Within
3rd: Kindle Fire
If you are interested you can either stop by our office at 3331 Burdick Espressway East or send the money in with your name, address, and phone number and we will mail out your ticket stub to you. Please attach a note stating it is for raffle tickets.
Thank you guys, we know how amazing our FB family is!!

RTR

DV Survivor Arts-Craft Day!!!

  • This was grabbing off of FB, wanted to get the word out as far and wide as possible in hopes that all Survivors that would like to contribute can do so!  If you have any questions, please contact that the Texas Survivor Caucus.  Hope to see some wonderful artwork going in this year!  Here’s just 2 of the gorgeous ones made last year!

  •  

  • Tile  Tile2

  • As a part of the Texas Survivor Caucus (a part of the TCFV CANs), we are pleased to announce that we are gathering together for a cost of $16 per person attending to make survivor art to contribute Survivor Art to the Texas Council of Family Violence's State Conference inSeptember. All art prepared really should be to the TCFV by July 16th, but they made an exception for those attending this Survivor Art Craft Day.
    The $16 cost includes any/all art supplies at the studio to create your survivor art. No need to bring your own; just show up, pay your $16 fee at the door, and put your creative mind to the work!!! The theme of the artwork is "What Survivorship Means to You"; if you aren't a survivor yourself, then "How I have been affected by Domestic Violence".
    Kathryn Elizabeth Krastin is the lead on this Survivor Craft Day and will take your contributions to the TCFV office the following Monday for you. If you can't afford to pay the cost, please let Kathryn Elizabeth Krastin know; we may be able to offer a limited amount of scholarship for the coverage of the fee.
    If you can't attend, the details for you to submit your artwork is as is below if you are still interested in doing a project for the event, but we encourage all those in the Greater Austin Area to attend.
    The exhibit will be displayed for all TCFV’s statewide conference participants, presenters, and UT Austin students. We hope the conference participants will have the opportunity to expand their view of the complexities of family violence, resiliency of survivors, and envision violence free future with individuals, families, and communities.
    The Exhibit information:
    Location: AT&T conference center, TCFV Statewide conference 2012, Austin, TX
    Workshop options to facilitate: Heart Stories/ Dream Boards/ Shoe Project “In Her Shoes”
    Scholarships available: Yes, Please inquire with your CAN Liaison
    Supplies& Size needed: Canvas Panel you can order from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Canvas-panels-10-inch-pack/dp/B00251EVPW/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1335541575&sr=1-1 or your local art supply store Size: 8” X 10”
    Number of Pieces to submit: 2 pieces
    Email Title of piece, Artist (preferred name), age and a short description of the piece (500 wds)
    Submit a release form per artist for each piece: see attached release form
    Proceeds of Auction: Given to participating Family Violence programs and TCFV C.A.N.s
    Please feel free to share this with others (especially those in the Greater Austin Area) who could possibly want to attend.
    We are anticipating a day of fun, laughter, and creativity!! :))

 

Marmalade Skies

13450 Research Blvd. #229, Austin, Texas 78750

View Map · Get Directions

May 21, 2012

List of Women’s Shelters/Non-profits Receiving Purple Pamper Packages

Sending out another Pixel Project! I just LOVE seeing what they have going, and truly pray that many of you can be a blessing to their projects! Here's what they've got going on now:

Now that Mother's Day is over, we're focused on getting people to sponsor the packages for recovering survivors at 25 women'sshelters across the U.S..

May 18, 2012

New Information Being Shared on our DV Library!

Here are just some of the articles going up on our DV Library!  As we sift through all the articles we’ve gathered we’ll be adding them to the DV Library as we can, so be sure to check back often!  If you are in need of specific information, or feel we are missing information that you think would be useful, just let us know!

May 17, 2012

Self-Healing from Trauma Series being offered through FB!

TLC is offering the Self-Healing from Trauma Series through FB!  Below is some information about what it’s all about, and we’re glad to have those that are already participating having joined in!  If you missed it this time, don’t worry, TLC will be offering it again soon! 
On March 27th we will begin the Self-Healing from Trauma series here on the facebook page. Each week on Tuesday a new block (there are 8 total) will be posted and pinned ot the top of the page for the week. Some blocks may take longer than one week, in the event a block takes longer than one week that block will be remain pinned to the top of the page for easy reference for two or more weeks.
The end date of June 5th is tentative at this time since we may work through the entire series faster or slower than that end date would allow for.
Self-Healing from Trauma Series on Facebook

Last week we started the Self-Healing from Trauma Series on the Tailored Life Coaching Facebook fan page.  Tomorrow will be the start of block 2.  Please come join us!!

https://www.facebook.com/TailoredLifeCoaching

Below is Block 1 if you want to work on it this week along with block 2.

Self-Healing from Trauma: Block 1 ~ What makes YOU feel good?
Make a list of what you are already doing each day that makes you feel good. Some examples of this could be anything from eating breakfast to taking a shower to watching your favorite show. I know for me some days are so bad I am just proud of myself for getting out of bed. No matter what you put on your list make sure it is something that makes you feel good.
After you make your list I want you to try to do a few things from that list each and every day for the next week. You may like keeping up with your list in a journal and writing your feelings each day about what you did and how you felt. Or, you may prefer to just sit quietly each evening or morning and think of your list and what you have done that has made you feel better.

May 16, 2012

Did you know that TLC has a Signature Journal?

It sure does!  Mary has created a beautifully inspired journal for Tailored Life Coaching!  So of course just had to share it with you and see what you think?  As for me, LOVE IT!  You can even get your own on the TLC Cafe Press!

TLC Journal Image

May 15, 2012

Sharing a New Link posted on our Le Chrysalis Christian Center!

Added “Empowering Christian Women” to our Helpful Sites List!

I’m actually pretty excited about this!  I’m always on the hunt for great sites and resources for Christian Women, and I’m so excited to have found this one this morning and just had to link it up immediately and share it with you!

Read More!

April 26, 2012

FREE International

We wanted to let you know about a wonderful Organization that is truly making an impact that we have recently found out.  This is a Christian based Organization that is helping those that have been through the horrors of human trafficking reclaim their lives, please connect with them on FB and take a look at their website to see what they are doing now!

FREEInternational on FB

The ultimate aim of FREE International is a free and empowered human.  Those that pass through our doors have been victimized and exploited.  We desire that they begin to thrive and become empowered to live life to the fullest.  Each person has unique God-given talents and desires, which need to be identified and nurtured.  We are developing a network of families, churches, businesses, schools and communities to continue to empower those that have been trafficked.  This network will be used to offer relocation if desired, apprenticeships, higher education ,affordable housing, and other empowering community connections.

About FREE International - FREE International

freeinternational.org

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people are trafficked and exploited as slaves around our world. Human trafficking is illegal and the number of those trafficked annually is difficult to determine. Here in the United States, figures vary from 14,500 to 20,000 but many experts consider the numbers...

April 23, 2012

Domestic violence fair to give voice to Missouri victims

Mark May 1st on your calendars and go out and help support this event or gain the knowledge that is needed! Silent Witness red life-size silhouettes of women will be on display for this event.

Domestic violence fair to give voice to Missouri victims

silent_witness_400

Normandy (Mo.) police Officer Amanda Cates was shot to death in August 2006 at the hands of her boyfriend. Since then, the number of Missouri residents that have been the victims of domestic homicide continued to grow.

University of Missouri–St. Louis students have set out to bring awareness to this growing epidemic and tell the stories of those unable to do so themselves. “The Silent Witness Initiative Domestic Violence Fair” will begin at 2 p.m. May 1 in Century Room C at the Millennium Student Center on UMSL’s North Campus. Students in the Violence Against Women class of Kristin Carbone-Lopez, assistant professor of criminology and criminal justice at UMSL, will present the stories of several women killed at the hands of their partners over the last year in Missouri.

Family members of Amanda Cates also will speak about her story. Biographies of each victim will be recorded and added to the Silent Witness National Initiativeand accompany red life-size silhouettes of women which will be on display in the Millennium Student Center. The silhouettes are on loan from the National Council of Jewish Women.

UMSL counseling and local organizations will be on hand to provide information about domestic violence and assistance. Refreshments will be provided.

The event is free and open to the public. It’s sponsored by UMSL’s Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Gender Studies Program, The Current, Criminology and Criminal Justice Graduate Student Association, Police Department, Health Wellness and Counseling Services and Center for Teaching and Learning.

April 17, 2012

Cut-A-Thon A Cut for a Cause

This is a wonderfully inspired event coming up, set your date if you’re in the area!!!  Hair cut for a donation?  Wishing I could be in the area for this!  Help get the word out about this FUNdraiser event!

Shared on FB by:

Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence shared Sheltering Wings Center for Women, Inc.'s photo.

This is a wonderful fundraiser for SW. Lots of silent auction items, great stylists for a great cause.

Mark your calender. ml

Cut-A-Thon

For bigger photo go here

Man arrested for punching teen who stood up for girl

Love when it all comes together and the guilty are punished!  It’s great to see a boy standing up to a man for making sexual comments to a female of any age like that!  We need more “Boys” like that out there!  Let’s get this guys name and picture out there, let’s show these abusers that they do the crime, they’ll do the time, online as well as in prison…

By Erin Guerra Post-Tribune correspondent April 16, 2012 2:26PM

Robert Grasa SOUTH HAVEN — When a 16-year-old boy told Robert Grasa, 40, to stop making sexual comments toward a 15-year-old girl, Grasa punched him in the face.

Grasa ultimately was arrested for misdemeanor battery, but only after information from a jail-time friend made the investigation take longer than it should have, police said. The friend, Paul Crews, 30, of South Haven, was arrested for false informing.

At about 6:30 p.m. Friday, the battery victim told police, he and friends were hanging out on the bike trail when they saw two men playing with a remote control car in the parking lot of Fast Eddies, at 792 Juniper Road. When one of the men, later identified as Grasa, made inappropriate commons to a teen girl, the 16-year-old exchanged angry comments with him. The two men began to leave in a green SUV but then backed up and the passenger got out, punched him twice in the face and shoved him down a small hill.

The men left before police arrived, but two of the juvenile witnesses used cell phones to save evidence: a photo of the SUV’s license plate and a video of the battery.

Police tracked the SUV to Paul Crews, 30, of South Haven, who reportedly said he and “Robert” had been in the parking lot but he did not punch anyone. Crews said he has been friends with Robert since meeting him a few years ago while they were incarcerated at the Porter County Jail, but he did not know his last name, phone number, address or any way to contact him.

Meanwhile, police learned Garsa’s last name from jail staff there when he served time for check fraud, and they learned his Valparaiso address by talking with his incarcerated girlfriend. While Grasa was not at home, an anonymous neighbor directed him to another Valparaiso woman’s apartment, where Grasa was found in her bedroom. He was arrested at 10:10 p.m. Saturday after admitting to punching the juvenile for calling him a name.

Grasa also said Crews had been calling him to keep him updated on the investigation, and he was deliberately giving false information.

Original Link

How Do You Parent an Abused Child?

I’m with Angela on this one, wish questions like this never have to be asked, but know that reality hits like a rock in the face because too often it’s needed.  I’m so glad that she shared this with us, along with her answer!  There are too many out there trying to help heal the wounds of those that have been abused as children…

by ANGELA SHELTON on APRIL 16, 2012

Ah, man. I hate these questions. Not that you ask them, but that they have to be asked in the first place. I sure wish I got some more “Hey, can you eat dandelions?” questions that I could have some fun with.  And btw the answer is yes, you can eat dandelions. Want me to make a video about it?

So, the question for today is about child sexual abuse.

It is April aka Sexual Abuse Awareness Month so it is a perfect time for me to answer questions like this. I edited it down for you to read while keeping it anonymous. I share more of it in my video answer.

I have a question. My daughter was sexually abused when she was two and a half years old. She disclosed her abuse to me when she was three and a half, I took her to therapy and she recovered well. She is now 13 and has no recollection of her abuse.  When she finished therapy at the age of four and a half, her therapist told me that she may need to reenter counseling when she grows into puberty/adolescence. I had her in therapy last year for her anxiety and it helped, however, her abuse issues did not come up. Currently, I am observing signs in her behavior that I recognize to be symptomatic of being a survivor of sexual abuse… My question is, how do you parent someone who is a survivor without telling them that they are a survivor?

Wow, that’s a loaded question, and I’ve heard some similar ones too, so here goes. There is far too much to go over in one blog post so I had to Vlog this one. It’s a long one, so if you’re interested in the answer, watch it. If you’re a survivor, watch it since it does apply and if you’re a teen going through some crazy crap right now, watch it.

If the question and/or CSA does not apply to you, move on to some fun videos instead! Click on that post over there. There, over there. Yeah, that one.

Visit Original Link to hear Angela Sheltons VERY LONG answer!

The Survivor Behind The Picture: Barbara Satterfield Kinsey

Way to go Barbara!!  Thank you for sharing you!  For stepping out and putting your face ,story and courageous strength out there for all of those that can’t!

 

Thousands of viewers of the music video PSA of The Rose will have seen the portraits of 6 survivors of violence against women who courageously and generously allowed us to include their picture in the video, knowing that a global audience will see their faces and note their signs that they are survivors and wonder about the stories behind their hard-won smiles. Wonder no more, for here is the first of their stories featuring Barbara Satterfield Kinsey, a survivor and long-time Pixel Project volunteer:

Barbara-Kinsey-225x300 Violence and abuse were the story of my life. From the time I was old enough to remember, boys and grown men were abusive in one way or another – verbally, physically, emotionally, sexually – to me and to my mother. I knew it was wrong and prayed daily as a little girl that God would send Wonder Woman to come rescue us. With the revelation of sexual abuse to me came stalking, threats and the requirement to start a new life in a new city.

This did not bring an end to abuse however. It started anew with emotional and verbal abuse to me and my mother by a new man in our lives. Naturally, I dropped out of high school and moved in with…another abuser. Only by the grace of God was I rescued from a man who would have surely put me six feet under sooner rather than later.

My life has moved on, to the realm of marriage to a great man, with children and a career. I always wanted to give back but could not figure out how. An email from the NCADV offered the opportunity to serve with a new anti-Violence Against Women non-profit, called The Pixel Project. It is my honour to volunteer to help others stop violence against women of all kinds. Recently, I was asked to allow my picture to be part of the Music For Pixels campaign. I want to be a face identified as a survivor, a warrior, a conqueror – to give hope to those who have none.”

Read More!

The Pixel Project Selection: 10 Fabulous Fathers in Fiction

FB browsing this am and the first thing I came across was the update from The Pixel Project, and it’s great to see them kicking this project off early!  This is a wonderful project that I can’t wait to see get going!  Men really need to be a part of the solution with Domestic Violence, and it would be wonderful to see more men get involved! 

 

We know it’s a little early, but while we seek out and gather interviews with 30 exemplary Dads from around the world for our upcoming 30 For 30 Father’s Day campaign highlighting positive non-violent Dads, we have compiled this list of famous fictional fathers who exemplify good Dads who are positive non-violent male role models. In acknowledgement of the power and influence of pop culture, we selected these Dads from across literature, film, comics and television

Inspired by the list of fabulous fictional fathers below? Here’s how you can take action:

  • If you are a Dad, download our mini interview for the 30 For 30 campaign, fill it in and email it to us at info@thepixelproject.net.
  • If you have a Dad or father figure in your life whom you think would be a perfect candidate to be included in this campaign, send him the link to our campaign page and/or download the mini interview and get him to fill it in.

Deadline for submissions is 7 May 2012, so get cracking!

It’s time to stop violence against women. Together.

Original Link

April 5, 2012

Sacramento County DA locks up alleged sex assault victim

“If they are doing it for her protection... why not hold him with no bail... but that isn't even the whole reason they are doing it... they locked her up to make her face him in court... ok so she ran away from foster care, where did she run to... HER MOM.... omg I can only imagine what that girl is going through being locked up AND not to mention the message this sends to other rape victims.... DO NOT REPORT is what it screams to them!”  Comment from Mary

“If they are doing this to a rape victim so she testifies, how many DV Victims end up not showing up in court and then later worse things happening to them or another victim by that abuser?  To actually lock up a victim to insure testimony, yet not hold the perpetrator without bail so they can’t run is absurd!  There are better ways to go about this, locking up a victim is just plain WRONG!  I understand that this man needs to be stopped, I understand why they feel that they need to do this, but there are better ways to go about this then to traumatize a victim further!”  Comment from Tracy

Please visit this paper and comment and show them just how outrageous this action really is!  Do NOT stand for this!  This victim needs our support as do future victims they may do this too!

Original Article

Published: Thursday, Apr. 5, 2012 - 12:00 am

A 17-year-old Sacramento girl has been locked up for more than a week now for her failure to appear in court against a swastika-adorned defendant with a 20-year criminal history who is accused of three counts of raping and sexually assaulting her.

Sacramento County prosecutors sought the material-witness warrant on the alleged rape victim, and two Superior Court judges have since ordered her detained to ensure her presence as a witness in a trial scheduled to begin April 23.

The girl is being held in juvenile hall in lieu of $50,000 bail. She is scheduled for a hearing Friday in front of Judge Lawrence G. Brown to determine if she will remain in custody. She is entitled to a court hearing every 10 days.

The girl's lawyer said she will ask Brown to set her client free.

"I think it's outrageous that the DA's Office wants to put a rape victim – a juvenile rape victim – in custody, as if she were the criminal, in a case where she is the victim," attorney Lisa M. Franco said.

The Bee's policy is to withhold names of those who may be victims of sexual assault.

Prosecutors said the danger they believe that defendant Frank William Rackley presents left them with a single-option "Hobson's choice" of seeking the material-witness hold.

"It's the last thing we ever want to do," Assistant District Attorney Albert Locher said Wednesday. "You never want to have a victim or a witness in custody. But you have to balance protecting the community. When you look at (Rackley's) background – multiple victims already – it's important that we try to prevent another victim from being harmed."

One expert on criminal procedure said prosecutors face a tough balancing act in forcing victims to testify by incarcerating them first. But the district attorney's job is to represent the people, McGeorge School of Law professor John Myers said, and not necessarily victims.

"Sometimes the balance is struck in favor of the prosecution for the protection of all the other women out there who would be preyed upon by this guy if the state's evidence is really the way it is," Myers said. "Sometimes that means a witness has to be severely inconvenienced."

According to the DA's court papers, Rackley is a parolee who has six felony convictions dating back to 1992 – three for robbery, one for stalking, one for stolen property and one for felony evasion.

He also was arrested and charged twice in December 1996 on suspicion of rape. Those cases were dismissed. The DA's papers said the alleged victim in one of them didn't show up for trial. No information was available on why the other case was dismissed.

In an affidavit for the material witness warrant in the Rackley case, Deputy District Attorney Alan R. Van Stralen described the 17-year-old as a dependent of the state who had twice run away from her foster care placement and did not appear at the defendant's Oct. 18 preliminary hearing.

The deputy DA said he subpoenaed her again through her Child Protective Services social worker to testify at Rackley's Feb. 28 trial. This time, Van Stralen said, she ran away from the Children's Receiving Home, apparently to her mother's residence in Contra Costa County, according to her lawyers.

Van Stralen said he contacted the girl before trial and she agreed to appear, but that she again failed to show up and he was forced to dismiss the case on Rackley.

"Based upon (her) extensive runaway history, and the fact she has specifically told me she would not come to court to testify in this matter, I believe that (she) will not appear and testify … unless security is required," Van Stralen said in his affidavit.

Judge Kevin J. McCormick on March 14 signed the warrant. Arrested in the interim, the girl appeared before Brown on March 27, who further ordered her detention.

According to the prosecution trial brief, the girl, then 16, was abducted July 22 at the Del Paso Boulevard light-rail station by a man in a red pickup truck who drove up and said, "I'm Frank. Do you have a boyfriend?"

When the girl rebuffed him, the man "got angry," according to the brief written by Van Stralen. The man then grabbed her arm, "threw her into the driver's side of the truck," and "drove to a dark spot on a residential street and parked," the brief said.

The man raped the girl and pushed her out of the truck, according to the brief. She "ran from the area as fast as she could," the brief said, until she found a sheriff's deputy and reported the alleged attack.

A rape examination of the girl turned up Rackley's DNA, prosecutors charged.

Rackley also is charged in the same case with raping a 30-year-old prostitute he picked up on Watt Avenue on June 22, the brief said. That woman later picked Rackley's picture out of a photo lineup, according to prosecutors. She identified Rackley's "numerous" tattoos, including a swastika on his chest and the letters "SAC" on his abdomen, the brief said.

Attorneys for Rackley could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

Locking up rape victims to force them to appear in court against their alleged attackers is so rare that one local DA's official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the pending case, said he was aware of only one other case.

It also pits a Penal Code section that allows for warrants to ensure material witnesses "appear and testify" against the state's Code of Civil Procedure, which says you can't "imprison or otherwise confine" sexual assault victims who refuse to testify.

Franco and attorney Amina Merritt, who represented the girl in her juvenile dependency matter, said the girl has told them she now is willing to both appear and testify against Rackley.

"She told the DA that last week," Merritt said.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/04/05/4392379/sacramento-county-da-locks-up.html#storylink=cpy

March 31, 2012

Pets Find Safety at the Nest

This is something that is close to my heart as I had to leave behind my 2 loving dogs with my abuser who then abused & neglected them...thankfully a neighbor saw the dogs situation and they were taken from him, but it was so hard to leave them behind and it did keep me in the abuse longer then I should have stayed since I couldn't protect them if I wasn't there. This is wonderful to see!!! So many are starting to see the connection between animal abuse/cruelty and Domestic Violence, and the outcome are programs like this that address those needs and make it easier and safer for a victim to leave her situation. Please support programs like this, they are very much needed!

Here’s some information that we have gathered so far:  Animal Cruelty and DV

In response to survivor needs, the Nest Domestic Violence Shelter is going to build several kennels designed to accommodate household pets of the women and children who live at the Nest.

Research shows almost 50 percent of domestic violence victims delay or refuse leaving an abusive home out of fear of leaving their pets or livestock behind.

For anyone who has ever loved a pet, this isn’t surprising.  It is understandable, especially in light of the fact that most women entering domestic violence shelters report their partner has threatened, injured or killed their pet.

“We see more and more victims arriving with their pets.  Thus far, we have been able to partner with the Humane Society, animal boarding businesses and volunteers in the community to temporarily ‘foster’ our survivor’s pets while they are in shelter.  Our new kennels offer a permanent solution to sometimes tricky situation.  The residents of the Nest immerse themselves in rebuilding their lives, which means they are out working all day and or attending school.  The kennels will provide safe respite for the pets while the residents are out of shelter,” explains Nest Supervisor Terry Thompson.

A number of studies have identified an overwhelming link between family violence and pet abuse.

The Humane Society of the United States established the First Strike Program to address the connection.

The program produces a variety of materials on animal cruelty and its connections to domestic violence, child and elder abuse and community violence.

Simply put, animal abuse in a family is an indicator that other forms of abuse may also be occurring.

Laura Bonar, Program Director of Animal Protection of New Mexico, explains, "Research tells us that someone who is physically abusive to his wife and children is also likely to be abusive to the family pet. Batterers may threaten to harm the animal in order to control the victim and prevent her from leaving. If the victim is able to get out of the situation, it is not uncommon for batterers take out their aggression on the animals left behind."

HEAL Executive Director Coleen Widell tells of an experience she had in Connecticut during a consultation at a shelter. During her visit, a box of beautiful long-stemmed roses arrived, intended for one of the residents. As she opened the box, much to her horror, the resident found her new puppy's tail in the box. She immediately left the shelter and returned home.

Twenty two states, as well as D.C. and Puerto Rico, have enacted legislation that includes provisions for pets in domestic violence protection orders. Despite several efforts by domestic violence advocates, New Mexico is not one of those states.
The Nest is seeking donations to assist with the kennel project.

If you are interested, please contact HEAL office manager Susanne Francis at 575-378- 6378.

HEAL & The Nest Domestic Violence Shelter

March 30, 2012

Eastern Kentucky’s Take Back the Night Rally

The below write up was done as an overview of what the rally entailed.  We encourage anyone that is going to a college or university that doesn’t have a Take Back the Night Rally to look into it and see how to make it happen on your campus!  If you don’t know where to start, let us know, we may be able to help you.  Take Back the Night is an internationally held march and rally intended as a protest and direct action against rape and other forms of sexual violence, some campus events include domestic violence awareness along with other forms of violence and abuse awareness.

If after reading the review you would like to find out more about the book “Fingernail Moon” or Hopes Wings Shelter, please see the links and book review after the Rally review.  There is also a link for upcoming Take Back the Night Events.

Take Back Your Life

    Was the message for Eastern Kentucky’s Take Back the Night Rally. Janie Webster Leech shared her story about her daughter’s sexual abuse, her court battle, and her life as a fugitive after fleeing the country with her child. In 2000 she received instructions on how to hook up with the underground and yet chose to venture out on her own. Someone from the audience asked why she had to run, when she had mental health professionals who could prove her child was sexually assaulted. Many of us have asked that question as well! (can I hear an AMEN?). This mother’s story was different from what we are used to. It is a story with a happy ending, and a journey to forgiveness and healing after sexual assault. While in Dublin, her ex-husband passed away, making it safe for her to return to the US. When she did so, a judge in Fayette County KY dropped her felony charges. (Unlawful flight and child abduction).

    College students from Eastern Kentucky University shared slam poetry and an assignment they had on stalking. Some students were stalked, and others did the stalking. Stalking included gifts, texting, facebook messages and more, but boundaries were set. It was interesting to hear the emotions shared of what it felt like to stalk and be stalked. That was a lesson that rippled out to their friends and hopefully will continue!

   Hopes Wings, the local shelter in Madison County, has struggled with grants since it has been open, and thanks to Mary Kay, will now be open and actually be able to offer shelter!

For upcoming Take Back the Night Events please visit the calendar for upcoming April events:  http://www.takebackthenight.org/calendar/week.php?day=2012-04-07

To find out more about Hopes Wings please visit their website at:  http://www.hopeswings.org/

About the book “Fingernail Moon: The True Story of a Mother's Flight to Protect Her Daughter” : 

Fingernail Moon, the true story of a mother and daughter’s courageous journey. An inspiring story of Janie Webster’s daring quest to save her daughter’s life.
When Webster discovered that her husband had sexually abused their daughter, her seemingly content life changed forever. She began divorce proceedings, but the court allowed unsupervised visits between father and daughter. Then her husband was diagnosed with AIDS. Terrified that he could further abuse and even infect their daughter, Janie Webster knew that she had to flee.
Mother and daughter embarked on a five-year journey around the world. Although often discouraged, they found within their physical journey a deep spiritual meaning. With God’s guidance, they established and reestablished new lives in the countries where they stayed, finding people they could trust who provided them with friendship and assistance. Despite the threat of deportation and imprisonment hanging over them, they sensed the hand of God engineering their safe passage.

Purchase “Fingernail Moon” on amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Fingernail-Moon-Mothers-Protect-Daughter/dp/0385495293

If your school is having a Take Back the Night Event and you would like for us to post about it either before or after please send us the information via the contact button to the left or send to Mary via email at:  mary@lechrysalis.org

March 28, 2012

Eastern Kentucky’s Take Back the Night Rally

The below write up was done as an overview of what the rally entailed.  We encourage anyone that is going to a college or university that doesn’t have a Take Back the Night Rally to look into it and see how to make it happen on your campus!  If you don’t know where to start, let us know, we may be able to help you.  Take Back the Night is an internationally held march and rally intended as a protest and direct action against rape and other forms of sexual violence, some campus events include domestic violence awareness along with other forms of violence and abuse awareness.

If after reading the review you would like to find out more about the book “Fingernail Moon” or Hopes Wings Shelter, please see the links and book review after the Rally review.  There is also a link for upcoming Take Back the Night Events.

Take Back Your Life

    Was the message for Eastern Kentucky’s Take Back the Night Rally. Janie Webster Leech shared her story about her daughter’s sexual abuse, her court battle, and her life as a fugitive after fleeing the country with her child. In 2000 she received instructions on how to hook up with the underground and yet chose to venture out on her own. Someone from the audience asked why she had to run, when she had mental health professionals who could prove her child was sexually assaulted. Many of us have asked that question as well! (can I hear an AMEN?). This mother’s story was different from what we are used to. It is a story with a happy ending, and a journey to forgiveness and healing after sexual assault. While in Dublin, her ex-husband passed away, making it safe for her to return to the US. When she did so, a judge in Fayette County KY dropped her felony charges. (Unlawful flight and child abduction).

    College students from Eastern Kentucky University shared slam poetry and an assignment they had on stalking. Some students were stalked, and others did the stalking. Stalking included gifts, texting, facebook messages and more, but boundaries were set. It was interesting to hear the emotions shared of what it felt like to stalk and be stalked. That was a lesson that rippled out to their friends and hopefully will continue!

   Hopes Wings, the local shelter in Madison County, has struggled with grants since it has been open, and thanks to Mary Kay, will now be open and actually be able to offer shelter!

For upcoming Take Back the Night Events please visit the calendar for upcoming April events:  http://www.takebackthenight.org/calendar/week.php?day=2012-04-07

To find out more about Hopes Wings please visit their website at:  http://www.hopeswings.org/

About the book “Fingernail Moon: The True Story of a Mother's Flight to Protect Her Daughter” : 

Fingernail Moon, the true story of a mother and daughter’s courageous journey. An inspiring story of Janie Webster’s daring quest to save her daughter’s life.
When Webster discovered that her husband had sexually abused their daughter, her seemingly content life changed forever. She began divorce proceedings, but the court allowed unsupervised visits between father and daughter. Then her husband was diagnosed with AIDS. Terrified that he could further abuse and even infect their daughter, Janie Webster knew that she had to flee.
Mother and daughter embarked on a five-year journey around the world. Although often discouraged, they found within their physical journey a deep spiritual meaning. With God’s guidance, they established and reestablished new lives in the countries where they stayed, finding people they could trust who provided them with friendship and assistance. Despite the threat of deportation and imprisonment hanging over them, they sensed the hand of God engineering their safe passage.

Purchase “Fingernail Moon” on amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Fingernail-Moon-Mothers-Protect-Daughter/dp/0385495293

If your school is having a Take Back the Night Event and you would like for us to post about it either before or after please send us the information via the contact button to the left or send to Mary via email at:  mary@lechrysalis.org

March 27, 2012

Maryland passes bill providing unemployment benefits to domestic abuse victims

I’m so glad to see this!  I pray that other states start implementing this as well to help Victims not have to choose between safety and their income.  Too many victims have no choice but to stay in their current job because they can’t go without the income, and too many abusers use this to their advantage…

March 27, 2012

Lt. Governor Anthony Brown and Maryland Labor Secretary Alexander M. Sanchez announced that legislation to provide victims of domestic abuse with unemployment benefits has passed through the Maryland General Assembly.  The law would help people who must leave a job because continuing to work poses a threat to the safety of the victim, his or her spouse, children or parents.

The Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation sponsored the legislation.  The Lt. Governor testified before the Senate Finance Committee and the House Economic Matters Committee in February.  On March 23, 2012, the House voted 108-28 to pass the law which made it easily through the Senate 46-0.

Lt. Governor Brown takes this issue very seriously.  Unfortunately he has personal experience as his cousin Cathy was senselessly murdered by her estranged boyfriend in 2008. (See video, left)

He used his experience as a legislator and that of a family member affected by the tragedy of domestic violence to move this bill through quickly so that victims can heal and get back on their feet financially as soon as possible.  In a formal press release, the Lt. Governor said that no one should have to "choose between personal safety and financial security."

He has worked with Governor Martin O'Malley to pass other laws supporting domestic violence victims.  His work includes restricting guns from getting into the hands of convicted abusers and upholding protective orders initiated by the abused.    

According to governor.maryland.gov , domestic violence deaths in Maryland have dropped by 41% since O'Malley and Brown took office.  For more information on unemployment benefits, financial assistance and the laws and services available to the citizens of Maryland, visit md.gov.

Original Article

Judge outlines reasons for domestic violence increase

By Elizabeth Marie Himchak
In San Diego County, more than 200 restraining orders are issued weekly, often for domestic violence, according Superior Court Judge Christine Goldsmith.

web-2x-Goldsmith-Christine-Feb-2012-224x300
A judge in the family law division for the past dozen years and wife of San Diego City Attorney Jan Goldsmith, she spoke about a rise in domestic violence cases at a Feb. 23 Continuing Education Center at Rancho Bernardo lecture.

Though domestic violence can happen at anytime and to anybody, Goldsmith said there is usually an uptick in restraining order requests during or following holidays, three-day weekends and sporting events like the Super Bowl. There has also been a correlation to the recession.

“We’re seeing more (cases) during the bad economy,” Goldsmith said. “They are not just violent but desperate, doing extreme things we did not hear of a few years ago.”

Goldsmith, who has been a judge for more than 25 years, said domestic violence reports have risen in the last couple decades because before then victims — most often women, but sometimes men — did not know where to go for help and society did not discuss the issue. Judges have also been trained to better identify and understand it.

“It was the common belief that women stayed with their abuser because it was no big deal and the man was entitled to run his home (as he saw fit),” she said. “That belief infiltrated society and the bench … (so victims had) nowhere to go.”

“Domestic violence is abuse committed by a person who has some relationship with the victim of abuse. … (It) can occur between teenagers in a young relationship and … in long-term marriages,” according to San Diego Volunteer Legal Program. Another form is elder abuse.

Though sometimes difficult to recognize, SDVLP says signs include jealousy and possessiveness, control, manipulation, mood swings, and attitude of disrespect, or history of domestic violence.

Goldsmith said some children at 8 or 10 years show tendencies toward committing domestic violence, such as fighting at school, using drugs or alcohol when they are 7 or 8 years old, and doing things like “setting a cat on fire.”

If not caught early and addressed through counseling, she said they could become homicidal or commit crimes like kidnapping or aggravated assault.

Some act out because they witness domestic violence at home. Others were exposed to drugs or alcohol while in the womb, so their brain development was affected, which influences their behavior, she said.

Though some abusers’ behavior cannot be changed, Goldsmith said through counseling others choose to modify their behavior.

“When I sit in family court I deal with domestic violence (incidents) every week, usually every day,” Goldsmith said.

Often the victim is requesting a restraining order. While there have been some well-publicized local incidents of where a restraining order did not prevent a victim’s assault or death, Goldsmith said it is important to have one so there is a record of the abuser’s history and police can arrest the abuser if the order’s conditions are violated.

She explained the process, starting with a temporary restraining order, which if there is sufficient cause becomes a permanent order lasting any length of time; often at least five years.

Goldsmith said she has also seen more restraining orders in paternity cases where non-married parents are fighting about the child.

She said family court judges in San Diego County combined typically hear 165 to 230 restraining order hearings per week. This does not include restraining order requests that come before judges for criminal or juvenile court proceedings.

“Throughout the county I can safely guaranteed more than 200 restraining order per week are issued,” she said. “Most of these are new applicants.”

About one-third are repeat applicants or those who feel a restraining order needs to be renewed, she said.

“Most applicants are women who run the gamut in age — 13 up to any age,” she said. “We now will take applications from people who are 12 or 13. Usually they are with a parent who comes in and makes the request for someone that young. At 16 or 17 they can come … to make their own application, which is heard in adult court.”

As for the 12- and 13-year-olds, she said they are typically being molested or have a boyfriend who is battering and abusing them.

“It is very sad for me to read the request from a 13-year-old who is usually dating someone 17 or 18,” Goldsmith said. “Frankly, it makes me wonder where was the mother or father … who saw no problem with dating at such an early age.”

Goldsmith said those needing a restraining order are given a packet containing all needed forms. They do not need to hire a lawyer and can receive assistance from the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program’s Domestic Violence Restraining Order Clinic.

It provides walk-in services on weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to noon, 1-4:30 p.m. at the Madge Bradley Building, 1409 Fourth Ave., 4th Floor in downtown San Diego. For details, go to www.sdvlp.org or call 619-450-7588.

Original Article

March 26, 2012

Domestic violence review sought

By Tracey Roxburgh on Sun, 4 Mar 2012

Principal Family Court Judge Peter Boshier is proposing a new way of handling domestic violence cases.

He says it would include a "wholly revolutionary" engagement process in court with families.

Judge Boshier spoke exclusively to the Otago Daily Times before his Queenstown presentation co-ordinated by Jigsaw Central Lakes.

Submissions on the Family Court Review, announced in April last year by the Government, closed on Wednesday.

One of the questions asked in the terms of reference was if the state should be investing in private law.

Speaking publicly for the first time about the review, Judge Boshier said the present process did not work "anywhere near as well as it should".

The court was last reviewed in 1993 and following that the Care of Children Act was introduced, which was prescriptive about things which had to be done quickly to reduce delay - terminology was changed, Family Court was opened to the media, children were involved in the process, and "a whole lot of teeth" were added to enforcement.

"Parliament added a whole range of steps, from counselling ... to admonishment, right up to enforce orders and also breach-of-parenting orders.

"Away we went on a wonderful new platform. The Care of Children Act was introduced in 2005, there was no recession and we had $9 million.

"[Then] there's a recession and a change of tack with a new Government and there's a perception that "should the state be investing in private law?"

"That is the present question ... is this the state's business?"

Judge Boshier said as it was, the Family Court was "not a sustainable court" - each year it handled about 670,000 cases. Of those, 27,000 related to the Care of Children Act.

"It is that Act that's the troubling one for sustainability. Have we been overdoing it? It is pretty nerve-wracking when you have been involved in a court for such a long time and you see the structure of it about to be reviewed by others.

"There does need to be [a review] of the family court. There are too many cases before judges that do not need to be before judges."

One example given was a dispute over care arrangements for a child, which could be handled effectively by a mediator who had the right to arbitrate.

However, the most widespread changes Judge Boshier had suggested related to domestic violence cases.
"What I am suggesting is that when the Family Court makes a domestic violence order to protect the victim, hand in hand with the judge making that order, is ... a requested or required assessment and information session with the victim."

It would occur "on the spot".

The victim would be run through the consequences of the protection order put in place, a safety plan established and a risk assessment carried out.

"A judge should not, in isolation, make a protection order ... there must go hand in hand with that engagement with the victim to go through the consequences [of the order] and the need for safety."

At the moment, a victim seeking a protection order either went to their lawyer or filed an application for protection with the court, which was handled by a judge.

The second change Judge Boshier suggested was regarding the delivery of the protection order to the other party. It should not be served by police or the bailiff days later or posted to the violent party.

"Rather, they are to compulsorily engage with the person who has been violent within 24 hours. The person is required to come into the court where the judge has made the order. There will be a risk assessment ... and preliminary screening to see what sort of programme that person is best to attend.

Judge Boshier said the third element of change he had suggested was "utterly different" and required engagement from both parties' families or whanau within 14 days of a protection order being made by way of a family group conference. Family group conferences are held only in Youth Court matters or Care and Protection work.

"There must be invited the family ... or whanau of both sides, there must be invited the agencies who are engaged with this couple, either separately or together. It could be any number of people who hold information and can assess [the individuals involved]."

At the conference, the risk assessments and screenings would be made publicly available and programmes would then be recommended to either the victim and the person offering violence, either separately or jointly.

"This is wholly revolutionary. We have never gone down this track before, but it's time we did this, in my opinion.

"My proposal is the family group conference will compel the family and the whanau to recognise the violence and the effect it's having on the children and the family."

While $63.2 million was spent on stopping violence, excluding the core work of the police, Judge Boshier questioned whether there was "value for money".

"I don't think we're talking about more money. What I'm asking for is better use of what we've got."

Original Article

March 25, 2012

Officers taking time to assess domestic incidents

3/1/2012 9:48:00 AM
In 2010 fifteen Minnesota women lost their lives to domestic violence, according to the Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women. Over the past decade 194 women were killed by a current or former husband, boyfriend, intimate partner, household member, or family member.

Officers from Wyoming, North Branch and Lakes Area Police Departments in late February attended training to implement an innovative program designed to address domestic violence. Over 30 officers from the three departments will use a scientifically-based tool, called a "Lethality Assessment," to direct their response to domestic violence calls and assist victims to seek help from shelters, like The Refuge Network.
  
The Lethality Assessment Program - Maryland Model (LAP).  The LAP is based upon 25 years of research at The Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing. That research revealed: four percent of domestic violence murder victims nationwide had ever availed themselves of domestic violence program services. In 50 percent of domestic violence-related homicides, officers had previously responded to a call on the scene, and the re-assault of domestic violence victims in high-danger situations was reduced by 60 percent if they went to a shelter for help.

The goal of the LAP is to prevent domestic violence homicides, serious injury, and re-assault by encouraging more victims to utilize the support and shelter services of domestic violence programs. A specific series of questions are used by officers to determine level of risk associated between an abuser and the victim. When victims’ responses rate as high-risk on the Lethality Assessment, an immediate call is made to The Refuge Network's hotline. The immediate connection has been found to be much more effective than simply leaving a business card for the victim, who often does not follow through once the abuser has been arrested and removed from the home. Chief Stenson of Lakes Area Police said, “The Lakes Area Police Department is excited to take part in the Lethality Assessment process. Ours is but the initial step, in several elements working together, to make sure the needs of domestic violence victims are being met to the best of our ability. A few minutes to assess and get a few questions answered is well worth the time to improve services.”

Information gathered from the Lethality Assessment may later be used by prosecutors to charge and prosecute the cases and by probation officers to determine levels of intervention, with the ultimate goal of keeping victims safe and reducing recidivism. Chisago County Probation Officer Bruce Hagstrom supervises misdemeanor offenders. “We look forward to this new tool providing greater victim safety, and increased offender accountability by identifying higher risk domestic offenders.”  

Lethality Assessments will also be made available to Judges setting bail for  and pre-trial release determinations to assist the Court in determining appropriate bail and pre-trial release conditions. Chisago County is already prioritizing domestic abuse cases by placing domestic abuse cases on fast track, allowing cases to reach jury trial on a priority basis.

Sgt. Randy McAlister, Cottage Grove Police Department, assisted with the training sessions in Chisago County.  Sgt. McAlister has been an outspoken proponent of the LAP after its implementation in Washington County.  McAlister has seen the LAP assessment tool convince reluctant victims to get  help from the available domestic abuse programs and shelters.  

The implementation of the assessment in Chisago County is the result of collaboration among Chisago County Attorney's Office, Chisago County Court Services, The Refuge Network, and law enforcement. The adopted two-pronged intervention process features the law enforcement administered lethality screening tool and an accompanying referral protocol that provides direction for law enforcement, victims' advocates, court services and prosecutors.  Assistant County Attorney Jennifer Bovitz, Probation Officer Hagstrom, and advocates from the Refuge Network were instrumental in the LAP coming into use in Chisago County.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in their relationship, help is available at The Refuge Network.  In Chisago County call (651)247-2890.
Original Article

March 24, 2012

Domestic abuse victim now helps others

By CINDY UKEN cuken@billingsgazette.com | Posted: Friday, March 16, 2012 12:15 am

Maria Martin

This was introduced as evidence in Maria Martin's domestic abuse case. It was taken after Martin was abused. Today, Martin speaks to other women of domestic violence and is an advocate for the Violence Against Women Act, which is pending reauthorization.

An impromptu call from a male acquaintance, wishing Maria Martin a "happy Easter," would send the man she had just begun dating into a jealous rage.

The witty and intelligent man she considered her "Prince Charming" was the same man who yanked her into his apartment, locked the door, and threatened her life and the lives of her three children.

James Archie Patrick III made good on his threat.

"He exploded into a fireball of irrational anger and jealousy," Martin said of that day in 2005. "I was confused. I didn't understand what was happening."

He punched her, alternating between her head and stomach, while cursing and calling her names. He shredded her new linen dress and leather jacket with a kitchen knife. He grabbed fists of hair and pulled. He broke her cellphone. He took a pistol from inside his Heights apartment and told her the bullets were "special" and would explode in her head. He pushed the barrel into her forehead with such force that it left a mark.

She is one of the reasons Montana's Democratic Sens. Jon Tester and Max Baucus are co-sponsoring bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act, which provides more than $4 million for 50 programs throughout Montana. The legislation strengthens the ability of states, law enforcement and service providers to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

During hours of torture, Patrick held a knife to Martin's throat and asked if she would rather be shot in the head or have her throat slit. Patrick also threatened to kill Martin's three daughters, explaining that he would shoot the older girls and "gut like an animal" Martin's youngest, who was 6.

A passer-by heard Martin's screams and summoned police.

This was the same "charming" man who caught her attention four months earlier. It was a Sunday. Martin and her daughters were Christmas shopping and took a break at a popular coffee shop. They scoured the shop for a Sunday newspaper. Patrick would later offer them his copy, laying the groundwork for an intense but short-lived romance.

It was the first date that Martin, a vulnerable and naïve divorcée, had had in 20 years. She was smitten with Patrick, who had a promising career. He had degrees in both English and law and had practiced as an attorney in South Carolina before moving to Billings. As the pair began dating, he called and visited frequently. He regularly sent email and text messages. He was "intensely passionate," she said.

"I thought it was wonderful to receive all this new attention," Martin said. "I was starved for it."

What she thought were love, devotion and attention were really red flags, telltale signs of a possible abuser. He stopped by her house every night and called multiple times throughout the day. He did not want her to go back to school. He grew jealous over the smallest things. He wanted to be alone with her, away from family and friends.

"I thought it was flattering. However, it turns out this was isolation," Martin said.

Nearly three years after Patrick beat and threatened to kill Martin, Patrick was sentenced to 61 years in Montana State Prison. He was found guilty of several charges, including two counts of felony assault with a weapon.

"I just can't even really believe it," Martin said during a recent interview. "I can't believe it really happened to me."

Martin went on to earn her master's degree in rehabilitation and mental health counseling. She is active in the Billings Area Family Violence Task Force, the Montana State Coalition of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Carbon County Domestic and Sexual Violence Services and many similar organizations.

She is also an ardent supporter of VAWA, which played a huge role in her survival. Programs to help victims are crucial to surviving assault and the associated repercussions, Martin said.

VAWA consolidates 13 existing programs into four. Since VAWA was passed in 1994, there has been a 51 percent increase in women who report domestic abuse and a 37 percent increase in reporting among men.

Between 2000 and 2010, there were 98 deaths in Montana attributed to domestic violence.

"I am alive today because I am a strong, intelligent woman," Martin said. "I need to stand up, step out and be in front of this issue for others who can't or are not able to -- yet. No one deserves to be treated with disrespect and violence."

That is why she is supporting VAWA, which expands the definition of sexual assault to include "any non-consensual sexual" acts, including when the victim "lacks capacity to consent."

The legislation also specifically addresses needs in Indian Country, where violence rates are highest in the state. The bill recognizes and strengthens tribal criminal jurisdiction to investigate, prosecute, convict and sentence both Indians and non-Indians. It allows prosecution to happen in either tribal or federal court, with the right of appeal to federal courts.

The legislation is currently pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

"This bill protects and empowers women by giving law enforcement, our courts and service providers the tools they need," Tester said. "I expect Congress to stand up for women and approve this measure in short order."

Original Article

March 23, 2012

T. Thomas Ackerman Releases 'The Safehouse' to Critic Acclaim: Novel Called a Call-To-Arms Against Domestic Violence

Saturday, March 3, 2012

T. Thomas Ackerman and Outskirts Press are pleased to announce the release of 'The Safehouse' to critical acclaim by readers of this page-turning thriller that has been called a call-to-arms against domestic violence.

The SafeHouse

Veteran author T. Thomas Ackerman is pleased to announce the release of his highly-praised thriller titled 'The Safehouse'. Evolving around the grave challenges of domestic violence, readers are jettisoned into the world of Ackerman's Detective Jessica Warren, and her life mission of protecting innocent women from predators.

'The Safehouse' is published by Outskirts Press, and is the second novel Outskirts has published by T. Thomas Ackerman. The Safehouse. Abusive husbands will wish they had never made contact with Detective Jessica Warren, Ackerman's new police detective heroine who makes saving battered women her life's mission - regardless of inadequate laws and dangerously violent, but basically cowardly men.

Domestic violence against women in the United States and abroad is a severe issue. In T. Thomas Ackerman's 'The Safehouse' readers are given a front row seat as to the magnitude of injustice as they travel with Detective Jessica Warren, a clever defender of aggression who understands all too well how vulnerable women are in abusive relationships. And she's not going to stand by and watch as innocent victims are injured or worse. The Safehouse is the story of Jessie Warren and the closely knit network of powerful women who aren't willing to allow abusive men to hide behind inadequate laws. It's the story of the victims she helps, some of whom learn to break out of the patterns holding them trapped. And it's the story of how Jessie navigates the police system with pragmatism, intelligence, and heart to extend a helping hand to women in need. But with all the time and emotional energy she spends helping others, will she be able to maintain her own life balance? And will she be able to outsmart the one member of the police force who doesn't approve of her unorthodox methods? True to life and riveting, The Safehouse will take you on a compelling journey to justice.

The abusive world of The Safehouse is one made tangibly real by author Ackerman, who is himself no stranger to the sometimes swept-under-the-carpet culture of domestic violence in this country. His father was a severe alcoholic and his mother died when she was only forty-seven, the victim of stress and illness from mental and physical abuse. His wife still suffers from neck pain that is the result of being violently strangled during her first marriage.

A continuing advocate of reform in this area, Ackerman will donate twenty-five percent of all royalties from the book to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

T. Thomas Ackerman lives in Connecticut with his family. He is also the author of For a Reason.

Midwest Book Review comments of The Safehouse, "A fine read that will grip the reader and not let go . . . Justice can sometimes be so hard to find. The Safehouse follows Detective Jessica Warren as she searches for justice as she joins with others in a crusade against domestic violence. But the law is not always on her side, and Jessica finds there are those who are working against her within it. Split between the law, her own goals, and standing against the evil that reeks in the world, The Safehouse is a fine read that will grip the reader and not let go.

Best-selling author Peter Thomas Senese commented, "The Safehouse is a well written, page turner that is equally a highly entertaining novel, but more importantly, it is a call-to-arms against domestic violence. This is a very important novel."

THE Safehouse may be purchased by visiting Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Outskirts Press.

For more information or to contact the author, visit: Outskirt Press.

Original Article

March 22, 2012

SF mayor suspends sheriff, seeks removal

Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi

By PAUL ELIAS Associated Press

Posted:   03/21/2012 12:19:32 AM PDT

SAN FRANCISCO—The San Francisco mayor says he's suspending the city's embattled sheriff and intends to permanently remove him from office following a domestic violence conviction involving the law enforcement official's Venezuelan actress wife.

Mayor Ed Lee said Tuesday that Ross Mirkarimi rejected his suggestion to resign after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor false imprisonment charge. Lee said he will file official misconduct charges Wednesday and the matter will be referred to the city's Ethics Commission.

"He has chosen not to resign, and now I must act," Lee said. "Sheriff Mirkarimi's actions and confession of guilt clearly fall below the below the standards of decency and good faith rightly required of all public officials."

If Lee succeeds in removing Mirkarimi as sheriff, the mayor will need the votes from nine of 11 members of the Board of Supervisors.

Earlier, a defiant Mirkarimi said he would fight to keep his job because he believes he didn't "official misconduct." The New Year's Eve dispute with his wife, Eliana Lopez, at their home in front of their toddler son left her with a bruise on her arm.

Mirkarimi was sworn in as sheriff on Jan. 8.

"I wanted to and have taken full responsibility," a sweat-drenched Mirkarimi told reporters outside his office in City Hall. "At this time, I do not plan to resign."

Mirkarimi said he hasn't spoken to his wife in nine weeks and is allowed to visit his son for about two hours each day because of an order issued by a judge. A separate order also prohibits the sheriff from carrying a gun.

He said his chief aim is reconciling with his family. "It's been cruel. It's been crushing," he said.

Mirkarimi also called a neighbor's accusation that he and his Lopez pressured him to destroy evidence and lie to the police a "complete fabrication." The claims were published Tuesday on the San Francisco Chronicle's opinion page, leading Lopez to cancel an appearance at a press conference to discuss the case.

Lopez' attorney, Paula Canny, said she advised the sheriff's wife to refrain from public comments because lawsuits were threatened.

Attorney Lidia Stiglich told The Associated Press that Mirkarimi will hire another attorney with more City Hall experience to represent him before the city's Ethics Commission and the Board of Supervisors.

Mirkarimi pleaded guilty to misdemeanor false imprisonment in exchange for the dropping of three other misdemeanor charges of domestic violence, child endangerment and dissuading a witness. The plea deal was struck as a jury was being picked for a trial that promised to embarrass the sheriff with testimony about infidelity, his temper and other intimate details.

San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon said the false imprisonment charge was a domestic violence plea and the conviction was just as serious as the three charges that were dropped.

On Monday, a judge sentenced Mirkarimi to three years of probation and a year of counseling. Under the plea agreement, Mirkarimi must pay $590 in fines, serve probation, spend a year in a domestic violence intervention program, take parenting classes and do community service.

The district attorney said Mirkarimi will be barred from carrying a gun until a judge lifts a stay-away order that prevents the sheriff from seeing his wife without court permission. Gascon said that order could stay in place for the entire three years of probation.

Mirkarimi said he was undergoing counseling to address "my arrogance and anger management issues" and reiterated his advocacy against domestic violence during his time as a board supervisor.

Meanwhile, Lee has named a retired chief deputy, Vicki Hennessy, to serve as interim sheriff.

Original Article

March 21, 2012

Volunteers for DV Hotline Needed in Washington County, ME

By Tom Walsh, BDN Staff

Posted March 11, 2012, at 11:09 a.m.
Last modified March 11, 2012, at 5:36 p.m.

MACHIAS, Maine — Stepping into a domestic violence altercation can be among the riskiest situations that those on the front lines of law enforcement ever face.

“What an officer is walking into is the most lethal point of a relationship,” said Travis Willey, a patrol lieutenant with the Washington County Sheriff’s Department. “Each situation is different and is very dynamic, and these are some of the most dangerous calls to which police respond.”

How police respond can keep a victim safer or put that person in more jeopardy, he said. “You’re dealing with a very intimate situation between two people at one of the most stressful times of their lives. And when substance abuse is involved, it makes it more unpredictable.”

Willey is the liaison between the Sheriff’s Department and Next Step, the domestic violence project that for 20 years has served domestic abuse victims in Washington and Hancock counties. The agency provides shelter to those dealing with spousal abuse, offering counseling and providing alternative living arrangements in safe houses for battered spouses and their children. Next Step maintains a 15-bed shelter at an undisclosed location in Washington County, with stays ranging from a few days to a few months.

“Domestic violence is about power and control,” said Rebecca Hobbs, the executive director of Next Step. “It’s a lethal relationship, and it’s a very difficult childhood to live in an abusive home. Leaving can be very traumatic, and it’s difficult as a victim of abuse to know what’s best for the kids. We talk with victims about safety and whether there are other safe home living options. We also need to assess whether they are able to live in a communal setting.”

Willey said Next Step caseworkers are essential to the process of victims preparing statements that can be used in prosecuting abusers on charges ranging from assault to criminal threatening, criminal mischief and harassment.

“Next Step’s involvement keeps victims on board,” Willey said. “It improves the quality of the case for the District Attorney’s Office, which increases the chances of conviction.”

Such statements are also crucial, he said, to obtaining court-issued protection orders.

“Protection orders can sometimes provide the break that allows Mom and Dad to regroup and to get the help they need,” Willey said. “There are some success stories out there.”

On a per-capita basis, domestic violence is less of a problem in Hancock County than in Washington County, Hobbs said. That, she says, may be related to higher unemployment, poverty and substance abuse in Washington County.

“Last year we served 900 people, and 400 of those were in Washington County, which has a population that is much smaller than the population of Hancock County,” she said. “It’s more of an issue here.”

Hobbs said her agency is in the process of recruiting and training volunteers who staff a telephone hotline that fields calls from victims of domestic violence. The next training session is on April 7, she said. For more information, call 667-0176.

Original Article