NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan today announced "TeenSpace" — the city's tele-mental health service available to all New York City teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 years old at no cost. Launching this month, the service — created in partnership with online therapy platform Talkspace — will allow New York City teenagers to connect with a licensed therapist through phone, video, and text.

Alex Mavrogenis is running a program, Safe Touch, which is a child sexual abuse prevention program designed for elementary school students. The program partners with two local public school districts to bring children information to help keep them safe from sexual abuse. For the first time since it was established in the 1980s, the program has come to a pause. The program, originally constructed by requests from guidance counselors seeking support in the increase in sexual abuse cases, provided a rare opportunity for students to disclose instances of abuse that they have previously faced. The program’s main goal is to educate people so that by the time they reach a later point in life, they are safe and well-mannered in sexual abuse and its effects. Catching child sexual abuse can be life-altering and life-saving. Experiencing sexual abuse during childhood can result in many long and short-term effects that leave post-traumatic stress on people, later causing depression and at some points, suicide. These programs are essential to protect children, especially in their young ages so that they are safe as they grow older not experiencing the ill treatment of sexual abuse and its detrimental effects.

More than double the number of health workers reporting harassment at work in the year of 2022 compared to the year of 2018. This harassment report includes threats, bullying, verbal abuse, or other actions. CDC is trying to address health workers' mental health issues at this time, which is great due to the health workers having a self-reporting uprise after the Covid-19 virus. There has been a poor mental health issue throughout the years that must be addressed. To promote worker well-being, employers can modify working conditions and change company policies associated with poor mental health issues for employees. This can include allowing health workers to participate in decision-making, building trust with management and higher authority, and even providing supervisor assistance. By reducing the stress allowing more time to complete work, and paying attention to harassment reports, we could make a great change.

Child sexual abuse is more common than many would realize or like to acknowledge. One in every 10 children is affected by child abuse. The report discussed in Wahpeton, North Dakota, includes that 25% of survey respondents did not believe that child sexual abuse is an issue in Richland County. There needs to be more policies enacted to spread child abuse recognition and laws. In addition, the report included that about “10% of respondents believed that children lie about being victims of child sexual abuse for attention”. The report included many more statistics specifically about the children and their abusers. However, the main issue is to make child abuse known and policies need to be enacted.

Pope Francis reiterated that the Catholic Church continues its commitment to the protection of minors from sexual abuse. He mentions that the entire Christian community should feel involved in this issue. He aims to spread awareness and attention to the protection of the youth. Pope Francis encourages pastoral workers for their work supporting victims and survivors as well as continuing their efforts against online child pornography. Pope Francis wants to spread awareness and thank the people who are currently helping children experiencing child abuse.

There is still a lot of work needed to be done to combat domestic violence in Alaska. Although it's a difficult subject, we should spread awareness and give others hope. There are many good programs that can help stop the spread of domestic violence and educate people such as teenagers at an early age to combat the spread. There are many survivors of domestic violence who can help spread the word and stop domestic violence, especially in Alaska.

Six Michigan community-based organizations will receive funding over four years to support local child abuse prevention initiatives. The winning grant proposals were selected through a competitive bid process. The grants emphasize supporting families facing challenges that could impact positive parenting and child development. Funded initiatives are expected to integrate into broader community plans for serving children and families. This brings the total distributed by Children Trust Michigan in 2023 to over $2.6 million across all 83 counties in Michigan.

The YWCA Center for Safety and Empowerment received $100,000 from Aetna, a CVS Health company, to bolster operations. The money comes at a welcome time for the center, which has had to “scramble” for funding in the past. The generous donation will increase funding for essential supplies, including clothing, shelter management, and clothing. With the donation, the YWCA center is adding 30 beds by March. Just in the year 2022, the Attorney’s Office reported 1193 domestic violence cases. Thus, due to the many cases, with honorable donations from major corporations, domestic violence can be reduced.

Actor Jonathan Majors, aged 34, was convicted of assault and harassment against ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari, aged 30. Charges stemmed from a March 2023 dispute in NYC that began in a car and turned physical on the street. Jabbari alleged Majors hit her, twisted her arm, and fractured her finger. Majors' team claimed Jabbari was the aggressor. The trial revealed a troubled relationship with text messages showing controlling behavior and Majors urging Jabbari not to seek medical attention. Majors faces up to a year in jail for assault conviction, sentence scheduled for Feb 6th. Marvel and Disney dropped Majors from all projects following the conviction. With the numerous narratives and opinions, Major’s career has been ruined after his great rise in Hollywood. However, this case raised awareness of domestic violence and its potential to harm others.

In Florida, the Gabby Petito Act aims to ramp up domestic violence prevention. Cops will get better training, victims' protection orders may be strengthened, and shelters could see more funding. Teachers and healthcare workers might be required to report suspected abuse. With bipartisan support, the Act hopes to offer a shield to victims and rewrite the ending for many.

Peoria County grapples with a winter surge in domestic violence cases, fueled by financial strain, holiday pressures, and social isolation. The Sheriff's department observes this concerning trend, with over 30% of jail bookings stemming from domestic violence. While men are typically the perpetrators, women and children can also be victims. To combat this issue, the department offers vital resources like victim advocates and connections to the Center for Prevention of Abuse.

A Montreal-area woman speaking out about domestic violence after a brutal attack. Laury Choinière was attacked by her ex-boyfriend on December 30th. Her mother, Julie Choinière, shared photos on Facebook of Laury before and after the attack. Laury is speaking out to help other women in abusive relationships. She encourages them to be firm, say no, and seek help. Yan-Phillipe Leduc, the suspect, was arrested and charged with assault and breach of conditions. He has a history of domestic violence. Laury is hopeful that she can regain her trust in men. She is seeking therapy to cope with the emotional effects of the attack. A friend has set up an online fundraiser to help her recover.

Nuisance ordinances meant to tackle disruptive behavior in rentals can backfire on domestic violence victims. Police calls, even by victims, count as "nuisances," pressuring landlords to evict. This disproportionately impacts Black women, who comprise a larger share of victims. The article urges reforms or repeal of such ordinances, suggesting they should target perpetrators, not victims.

In Broomfield, Colorado, a domestic violence call spiraled into a tragic shooting. Responding officers encountered the suspect, and shots were fired. One person was fatally shot, though their identity and relationship to the suspect remain unknown. No officers were harmed. The Broomfield Police Department is investigating the incident, but details about the events leading up to the shooting and the identity of the deceased are still withheld. The article emphasizes the sensitive nature of the situation and the ongoing investigation.

The Gabby Petito Act, named after the tragically slain young woman, aims to strengthen protection for domestic violence victims in Florida. This proposed law would require officers to complete a "lethality assessment" during investigations, helping identify high-risk cases and connect victims with vital resources and support. Backed by Gabby's family, survivors, and advocates, the bill hopes to prevent future tragedies by proactively addressing domestic violence. Its fate now lies with the Florida Senate.

The article is about a woman named Kirsty who rebuilt her life after experiencing domestic violence and financial abuse. It discusses the challenges she faced, including homelessness and financial insecurity. Kirsty overcame these challenges with the help of financial counselling and her own determination. She is now a homeowner and wants to help others who are in similar situations.

The overturn of Roe v. Wade has led to a significant increase in calls to The Hotline from teenagers experiencing reproductive coercion, indicating the broader impact of the legal decision. Reproductive coercion, which encompasses various forms of abuse such as controlling contraception use and restricting access to reproductive healthcare, has become more prevalent post-Dobbs. Teenagers, particularly those unable to access abortion in restricted areas, are increasingly finding themselves trapped in abusive relationships with limited options for escape. Factors such as inadequate sex education in schools and societal stigma further exacerbate the challenges teenagers face in identifying and seeking help for abusive relationships. Marginalized groups, including BIPOC individuals and LGBTQ+ youth, are disproportionately affected by reproductive coercion and intimate partner violence. The legal landscape post-Dobbs has empowered abusers, with the threat of legal ramifications being used as a tool for control. Comprehensive support systems and resources are urgently needed to empower teenagers to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships and to address the pervasive issue of teen dating violence. Without access to these resources, young people remain at risk of entering and remaining in harmful relationships, with serious implications for their well-being.

Former "Home Alone" actor Devin Ratray has pleaded guilty to two domestic violence charges, avoiding prison time but ordered to attend behavior intervention plan classes and undergo drug and alcohol assessments. The charges stem from an altercation with his girlfriend in December 2021, during which she alleged he punched her, covered her mouth, and attempted to strangle her, reportedly threatening her life. Ratray, known for his role as Buzz McCallister, faced a delayed trial due to a reported hospitalization in critical condition but has since been released. The case also revived a 2017 rape allegation against Ratray, though he denies the accusations. The incident highlights the seriousness of domestic violence issues and the importance of thorough investigations while ensuring fair treatment for all parties involved.

Governor Jeff Landry's proposed state budget for Louisiana slashes $7 million in funding for domestic violence shelters, sparking concerns among advocates and legislators. The cuts would hinder the opening of new shelters and the expansion of existing ones, potentially forcing closures and limiting services. Despite Louisiana's high rates of domestic violence-related homicides, the administration has not provided a clear rationale for the cuts. Advocates argue that prioritizing funding for other public safety measures over domestic violence shelters neglects a crucial aspect of crime prevention. Senate President Pro Tempore Regina Barrow has vowed to prioritize restoring the funding, emphasizing the critical role shelters play in supporting survivors. In the face of increasing demand and unmet needs, advocates stress the importance of sustained investment in domestic violence prevention and support services. As one advocate puts it, "Domestic violence shelters do keep people alive," highlighting the life-saving impact of these services.

The chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Jessica Rosenworcel, is proposing a new rule to address the emergence of technology-enabled stalking involving internet-connected cars. This proposal would subject automakers selling such vehicles to a telecommunications law aimed at protecting domestic violence survivors. Rosenworcel's initiative follows her outreach to major automakers and telecom providers, seeking information on their policies regarding internet-connected car technology and its potential implications for domestic abuse. The proposed rule, which will undergo a formal public comment period, seeks to extend the FCC's oversight to include certain connectivity arrangements in cars. Rosenworcel emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety and security of survivors' connections, highlighting similarities between this issue and the FCC's implementation of the Safe Connections Act. This move comes in response to cases like that of a woman suing Tesla, alleging the company negligently failed to address her complaints of being stalked by her husband through the car's technology. Automakers' responses to Rosenworcel's inquiries varied, with Tesla emphasizing customer data privacy and Toyota outlining steps for prompt response to survivor requests while ensuring appropriate authentication. The chairwoman anticipates the FCC addressing the issue within the next month, indicating a potential regulatory response to safeguard privacy and security in the context of internet-connected cars and domestic abuse.

Former Seattle Seahawk Chad Wheeler's life took a dramatic turn as he received an 81-month prison sentence for a horrific assault on his girlfriend, Alleah Taylor, in 2021. The brutal attack left Taylor with a shattered arm and deep emotional scars, forever etching the incident in her memory. Despite Wheeler's defense claiming he couldn't recall the events due to bipolar disorder and unmanaged medication, Taylor's unwavering courage led her to become a rare voice in domestic violence cases, bravely taking the stand against her abuser for three days. Prosecutors countered Wheeler's claims, highlighting a history of violent episodes and his disregard for managing his mental health, further solidifying the severity of his actions. This case serves as a stark reminder that domestic violence knows no bounds, and individuals in positions of power or influence are not exempt from facing the consequences of their actions. It also shines a light on the immense strength and resilience of survivors like Taylor, whose bravery aims to empower others facing similar situations to find their voice and seek justice.

Elizabeth Flock, a journalist, delves into the harsh realities faced by women who defend themselves against domestic violence within the American legal system. Despite enduring years of abuse, these women are often denied self-defense claims due to laws crafted for different circumstances. "Stand your ground" laws, riddled with bias, further disadvantage them. Calls for peaceful solutions often ring hollow, as fear of retaliation or a failing system leaves them with limited options. The consequence? Criminalization for survival. Prosecutors exploit existing biases to discredit these women, painting them as unreasonable instead of recognizing the long-term terror they've faced. Though the legal system inches towards progress with defenses like "battered woman syndrome" and state-level reforms, the pace is agonizingly slow. The fight continues for abused women, urging for a legal system that acknowledges their unique struggles and offers them a fair chance at self-defense.

The text discusses the tragic events surrounding the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022, where 19 children and two staff members lost their lives due to law enforcement failures and lack of urgency in response. Drawing parallels to historical cases, particularly the 1966 University of Texas-Austin shooting perpetrated by Charles Whitman, the narrative highlights the importance of understanding the dynamics of intimate partner violence in preventing such atrocities. Kathy Leissner, Whitman's wife, endured years of abuse documented in private letters, shedding light on the continuum of abuse leading up to public acts of violence. Despite her affluent upbringing and vibrant personality, Kathy fell victim to Whitman's controlling and abusive behavior shortly after their marriage in 1962. Throughout their tumultuous relationship, Kathy struggled to assert her independence, facing barriers such as societal stigma and limited support resources. Despite signs of resistance and attempts to plan an escape, Kathy's life was tragically cut short when Whitman murdered her in 1966, shortly before his rampage at the University of Texas. It is important to recognize and adress intimiate, destigmatizing discussions around abuse, and provide accessible support systems for survivors. The article also calls for a cultural shift towards believing and supporting survivors, intervening early to prevent violence, and fostering accountability to create a safer society. Overall, Kathy Leissner Whitman's story serves as a poignant reminder of the human toll of domestic violence and the interconnectedness of private and public acts of violence.

The Milwaukee Homicide Review Commission, in response to the tragic death of Bobbie Lou Schoeffling due to domestic violence, released over 50 recommendations to prevent similar tragedies. Representatives from various agencies convened to examine the case and propose solutions. The report highlights missed opportunities in the criminal justice system and aims to identify areas for improvement rather than assign blame. Key recommendations include expanding the Domestic Violence High-Risk Team and accompanying officers with trained advocates on domestic abuse calls. Efforts to apprehend offenders with outstanding warrants and address housing instability for victims are also emphasized. Additionally, the report calls for closing the "dating loophole" in Wisconsin law to ensure comprehensive coverage of domestic abuse cases. Clear delineation of responsibilities among agencies is underscored to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations and enhance protections for victims of domestic violence.

The tragic death of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins has reignited calls for treating domestic violence as a community safety concern, following the parole of Crosetti Brand, who allegedly killed Perkins while attacking his pregnant ex-girlfriend. Advocates, including Ashley Olson of Ascend Justice, highlight systemic failures in protecting domestic violence victims, such as inadequate enforcement of protection orders. Healing to Action, another advocacy group, stresses the necessity of a community-based support network for survivors to address systemic issues in the long term. Karla Altmayer, co-founder of Healing to Action, emphasizes the need for awareness and holistic solutions to combat domestic violence effectively. The issue of domestic violence remains urgent and requires comprehensive societal responses to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals and families.

The annual Hubbard House walk against domestic violence, "Stand Up and Stride," drew over 1,000 participants to raise funds for survivors and their children. Melissa, a survivor, shared her harrowing experience of 15 years of abuse before finding refuge and empowerment through Hubbard House. The organization provides essential services like emergency shelter and counseling for survivors. Longtime volunteer Paul Bryce emphasized the widespread impact of domestic violence on families and communities. Despite her ordeal, Melissa has since remarried and celebrates 20 years of happiness and faith. Her story highlights the resilience and hope that survivors can find with support. Hubbard House's 24/7 hotline offers immediate assistance for those experiencing domestic violence. Melissa's journey underscores the importance of belief and support in overcoming abuse. In conclusion, domestic violence remains a pressing issue affecting countless individuals and families, necessitating ongoing support and advocacy.

Governor DeSantis signed five bills into law during a press conference in St. Pete, with a focus on protecting children. The centerpiece legislation, SB 1224, aims to enhance law enforcement's ability to assess domestic violence situations, inspired by Gabby Petito's tragic murder. It mandates advising victims and referring them to certified shelters based on specific assessment criteria. Other bills address various forms of child exploitation and harm. One bill establishes a new offense for harmful communication to minors, while another increases penalties for child exploitation crimes. Additionally, an Online Sting Operations Grant Program will equip law enforcement with resources for targeting online child predators. Stricter guidelines for sexual offender registration were established, including reporting of international travel and restrictions on temporary residences. Changes to existing law allow hearsay statements by minors as evidence and require sex offender registration for trafficking minors. Governor DeSantis emphasized Florida's commitment to protecting children and families, ensuring the state remains a safe environment for its youngest residents.

The murder of Sumaya Amash in Jisr az-Zarqa, occurring just days after a conference on femicide at Western Galilee College, underscores a critical issue of domestic violence and femicide in Israel. Amash, who had lodged multiple complaints against her husband, tragically became the eighth woman murdered in the country since January. The conference, organized by Dr. Janan Faraj Falah, brought together experts from various fields to address the alarming increase in violence against women, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and better support systems. Prof. Shalva Weil, founder of the Israel Observatory on Femicide, noted a spike in domestic violence exacerbated by the recent conflict with Hamas, which has increased societal stress and access to weapons. The Israeli Welfare Ministry reported a significant rise in domestic violence referrals, reflecting a broader societal crisis. Cases like that of Gila Cohen, who survived an attempted femicide, illustrate the severe threats women face from intimate partners. The observatory collects detailed data on femicide to inform policy and raise awareness, aiming to reduce such violence. In the Arab sector, cultural pressures and the phenomenon of honor killings further complicate the issue, with women like Sarit Ahmad being targeted for defying societal norms. Despite the challenges, efforts to educate communities and strengthen legal protections are seen as crucial steps. The ongoing conflict and societal tensions underscore the need for systemic changes to prevent such tragedies and protect vulnerable women.

Kate Ranta was in the process of divorcing her husband, U.S. Air Force Major Thomas Maffei, when he violently attacked her on November 2, 2012, shooting her twice in front of their four-year-old son, despite the child's desperate pleas to stop. Maffei, who had a history of domestic violence, was convicted of multiple charges, including attempted first-degree murder and is now serving a 60-year prison sentence. This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun access for individuals with domestic violence histories, a matter currently under scrutiny by the U.S. Supreme Court in the case U.S. v. Rahimi, which questions whether such individuals should be allowed to own firearms under the Second Amendment. Ranta had previously sought a restraining order against Maffei but let it lapse after a brief reconciliation, underscoring the complexities victims face in navigating the legal system. On the day of the shooting, Ranta and her father tried to block Maffei's entry, only for him to shoot through the door, leaving them both severely injured. Similarly, Angela Gabriel's ex-partner, Carl Thompson, shot her nine times in her Baton Rouge home while she was in the bathtub, resulting in her partial paralysis and permanent injuries. Despite Thompson's previous threats and violent behavior, Gabriel never perceived herself as a victim of domestic violence and thus did not seek a restraining order, a decision she now deeply regrets. Thompson was later convicted of second-degree attempted murder and is serving a 45-year prison sentence. Gabriel's story, along with Ranta's, illustrates the heightened risk of intimate partner violence (IPV) for women, especially when firearms are involved, as reflected in CDC data showing disproportionately high rates of IPV among marginalized women. The stories of both women underscore the lethal potential of domestic violence and the urgent need for legal protections and societal support to prevent such tragedies.

On the night of May 31, the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a 22-year-old woman who reported being assaulted by a man named French at an address on Cedar Drive in Tunica. Upon arrival, the officers found that French was not at the scene, leading to the issuance of a warrant for his arrest. French later surrendered himself at the sheriff’s office and was subsequently released on his own recognizance from the Tunica County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 20. The Coldwater Police Department, where French is employed, confirmed that he has been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation's outcome. Billy Simmons, the victim's grandfather, mentioned that French has a child with his granddaughter and expressed uncertainty about the circumstances that led to the domestic violence charge. Despite this, Simmons remarked that French had always seemed like a decent person and noted that there are often multiple sides to such stories. He added that neither his granddaughter nor her child was injured in the incident. Coldwater Police Chief Rickey Dandridge acknowledged French as a good officer but emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and adhering to the law, especially as law enforcement personnel.

Arizona has one of the highest domestic violence rates in the U.S., with 42.6% of women and 33.4% of men affected by intimate partner violence or stalking. Recent incidents in Maricopa County include a woman held hostage in Surprise, whose baby was shot, and the murder-suicide in Gilbert involving Brooke Lundy and her abusive boyfriend. Organizations like Chrysalis, A New Leaf, and Sojourner Center provide critical services such as emergency shelter, counseling, and legal support for victims. Click the website link now to see and find information about these shelters.

New York City has launched "Project Home," a pilot program aimed at assisting domestic violence survivors with children living in shelters to find permanent housing. Mayor Eric Adams and DSS Commissioner Molly Wasow Park announced that the program, starting with 100 families, will offer specialized housing assistance to expedite their transition out of shelters. The initiative is supported by a $300,000 grant from the NYC Fund to End Youth & Family Homelessness and involves collaboration with New Destiny Housing, a nonprofit dedicated to housing for domestic violence survivors. Project Home aims to reduce the time survivors spend in shelters by connecting them with trained housing navigators who will help secure permanent homes and provide ongoing support to ensure stability. Additionally, eligibility for supportive and affordable housing has been expanded to include domestic violence survivors, addressing barriers that previously limited their access to these resources. This program is part of a broader effort under the "Women Forward NYC" initiative to improve gender equity and support vulnerable populations in New York City.

New Jersey legislators are advancing a bill to require court-ordered counseling for children who witness domestic violence, prompted by a significant increase in reported incidents—over 63,000 in 2020. This initiative aims to address the urgent need for early intervention to support children coping with traumatic experiences comparable to those endured by direct victims. The proposed legislation seeks to amend current laws to ensure prompt access to crucial mental health services for affected children, driven by real-life tragedies where children have witnessed fatal abuse.

The recent landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in United States v. Rahimi has reaffirmed the constitutionality of laws prohibiting individuals accused or convicted of domestic violence from owning firearms, underlining a critical stance on protecting victims from gun violence. This decision not only upholds federal statutes but also impacts state laws, such as those in North Carolina, where regulations require individuals with domestic violence protective orders (DVPOs) against them to surrender firearms to law enforcement. While North Carolina has implemented measures aligned with federal standards, including provisions for surrendering firearms under certain circumstances, critics argue that these laws could be more robust to better safeguard victims of domestic abuse. Efforts to strengthen these laws, including proposed bills like the one introduced by Sen. Jay Chaudhuri to restrict firearm ownership for those convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, underscore ongoing debates and legislative actions aimed at enhancing domestic violence protections statewide.

In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court upheld Grants Pass, Oregon's law prohibiting the use of blankets, pillows, and cardboard by homeless individuals sleeping outdoors. The ruling, authored by Justice Neil Gorsuch, argued that the ordinance targets actions, not status, and is within the bounds of typical criminal penalties. Critics, including dissenting Justice Sonia Sotomayor, argue that such laws disproportionately impact vulnerable groups, particularly survivors of domestic violence, who often face homelessness as a result of abusive situations. They contend that criminalizing homelessness exacerbates their challenges by restricting access to vital resources and perpetuating cycles of trauma and poverty. The decision has national implications, potentially emboldening similar legislation elsewhere and prompting calls for more compassionate approaches to homelessness. Advocates stress the need for policies that support safety and stability for all, especially those fleeing abusive environments, rather than further marginalizing already vulnerable populations.

The Debbie and Marie Domestic Violence Protection Act, a pioneering law in Tennessee, mandates GPS monitoring for the most violent domestic offenders as a condition of bail. This legislation emerged from the tragic murders of Debbie Sisco and her daughter, Marie Varsos, by Marie's estranged husband, Shaun Varsos, who had previously threatened and strangled her. The law ensures that victims are alerted via phone or electronic device if their abusers violate protective orders by entering restricted zones or approaching them. This real-time notification system aims to give victims time to seek safety and prompt immediate law enforcement intervention, potentially preventing further violence.

Two Australian women who suffered decades of intimate partner violence have been diagnosed posthumously with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), marking the first known cases of CTE in domestic violence victims in Australia and among the few globally. The findings, published in Acta Neuropathologica, highlight the prevalence of CTE, typically seen in male athletes, in women subjected to severe, repetitive head trauma. The research, conducted by a team of pathologists, underscores the urgent need to screen domestic violence victims for CTE during autopsies and raise awareness about the overlooked risks of brain injuries in abused women. These women, aged in their 30s and 40s, died from blunt force trauma and had extensive histories of assault-related medical issues. The discovery points to a critical need for greater attention to brain injuries among domestic violence survivors and highlights the necessity for comprehensive public health measures to protect and support these individuals.

Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders, while responding to domestic violence calls on state Route 507 in Yelm, had to take a bathroom break. During his search for a discreet spot, he discovered the suspect hiding in a field. The 53-year-old man was subsequently arrested and charged with harassment and stalking related to domestic violence.

In January 2022, Lobna Hemid, living near Madrid, was violently attacked by her husband Bouthaer el Banaisati, who regularly abused her. Despite this, the police, using the VioGén algorithm, assessed her as "low risk" and sent her home without protection. Seven weeks later, el Banaisati killed Hemid and then himself. VioGén is an algorithm used in Spain to assess and combat gender violence, aiming to prioritize police resources by categorizing victims into risk levels. While it has reportedly reduced repeat attacks, it has also been criticized for its failures, resulting in fatal outcomes for some victims misclassified as low or negligible risk. Since its implementation in 2007, 247 women assessed by VioGén have been killed, and a significant number of victims have been harmed again despite low-risk classifications. Experts and victim advocates highlight issues with VioGén, including poor data quality and insufficient police training, leading to inaccurate risk assessments. They argue that trained specialists, rather than police, should handle victim interviews, and victims should be allowed to have a support person present during assessments. Despite its flaws, Spanish officials defend VioGén, citing an overall reduction in violence. However, recent incidents have prompted calls for system improvements and better human oversight to ensure more accurate and protective measures for victims.

Victims of domestic violence in New York, particularly women, are often subjected to child welfare surveillance by the Administration for Children’s Services (A.C.S.) despite being blameless. When a parent reports abuse, the abusive partner may face a child neglect case, but the victimized parent can also receive supervision orders. These orders lead to announced and unannounced home visits by caseworkers, who search homes and examine children for signs of abuse, creating additional stress and fear for the victims. A lawsuit argues that this practice constitutes "double abuse" by punishing victims further and violates their constitutional rights against unreasonable searches and due process. The case has gained support from various organizations, highlighting the need to reassess these practices to ensure they do not deter victims from reporting abuse or infringe upon their rights.

A domestic violence incident in Price, Utah, resulted in the fatal shooting of a 31-year-old man by police officers. The shooting occurred just after 11:30 p.m. and involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Helper City Police Department and the Carbon County Sheriff's Office. It is unclear how many officers fired their weapons or if the man had used a weapon himself. The Utah Bureau of Investigation is handling the ongoing investigation.

A $4.1 million expansion of the Domestic Violence Service Center in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, has been completed, named in honor of former executive director Paula M. Triano, who served from 2004 until her death in January 2023. The expansion adds 36 much-needed beds to the center's capacity, addressing the urgent demand for support in a region with high rates of domestic violence. Board president Michael Messersmith highlighted the significance of the expansion, noting that domestic violence affects 10 million people annually in the U.S. Luzerne County ranks sixth in the state for domestic violence homicides. The center's executive director, Marsha Pigga, emphasized the pressing need for resources, with someone becoming a survivor of domestic violence every nine seconds in the U.S. The project was made possible through city, state, and federal funds, and the dedication ceremony was held at a secure location due to safety concerns regarding perpetrators. The center's partners expressed gratitude for the support and discretion that facilitated this critical expansion.

The prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) is significant, with 33% of women and 25% of men experiencing it in their lifetime, often resulting in physical, sexual, or psychological harm. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, increasing telehealth offerings from 12% to 90% among family practitioners and pediatricians, providing crucial access to mental health care for those experiencing IPV. While teletherapy offers advantages like convenience and accessibility, it also presents challenges, such as heightened feelings of isolation and anxiety about privacy for patients in abusive situations. Experts emphasize the need for mental health providers to adopt trauma-informed care practices, utilizing the CUES framework (Confidentiality, Universal education, Empowerment, Support) to ensure patient safety and confidentiality. Providers should assess whether patients have a private space for discussions and be aware that the risk of escalating violence may arise if an abusive partner learns about the therapy. As telehealth services continue to be utilized, ongoing training for providers on IPV dynamics and tailored communication strategies will be essential in fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, ultimately improving patient outcomes and experiences in a changing healthcare landscape.

New York’s Office of Court Administration has introduced the Hope Card program to enhance safety for domestic violence survivors. Hope Cards are wallet-sized, laminated cards that provide a summary of a final order of protection, covering the respondent, protected individuals (including pets), and a QR code linking to the full document. Available in both physical and digital formats, these cards carry the same legal authority as the original order and can be requested online or in court. Survivors can use the card to easily share protection details with law enforcement, work, or school. The program was signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul in October 2023, making New York the sixth state to adopt it. Assemblymember Sarah Clark, who sponsored the bill, stated that Hope Cards empower survivors to discreetly and effectively enforce their protection orders.

Her Majesty The Queen: Behind Closed Doors premieres next week, featuring Queen Camilla’s powerful commitment to ending domestic abuse! In this documentary, Camilla meets survivors—including a UK parliament member, a police officer, and a former Miss England—shedding light on the often-hidden forms of abuse like coercive control. Survivor stories, like that of Chief Inspector Sharon Baker, reveal the devastating impact of manipulation and isolation, highlighting why coercive control is a major predictor of future violence. This film is a crucial step in raising awareness about domestic and sexual violence. Queen Camilla’s dedication to the cause is a promise to continue the fight until it’s eradicated. Violence may not always be visible—by the time it is, it could be too late. Let’s support survivors and speak up.

New York State lawmakers, led by Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Amy Paulin, plan to reintroduce a bill in January aimed at protecting domestic violence victims by amending the Safe Homes Act. The bill would require police to confiscate firearms in plain sight during domestic violence calls, changing the current language from "may" to "shall" to ensure uniformity across departments. Harckham emphasized that the confiscation would be temporary, lasting five days to allow for a safety plan for the victim, and stressed that the measure does not violate Second Amendment rights. After delays due to a related Supreme Court case, the senator is optimistic about the bill's passage in the upcoming legislative session.

The Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence is honoring Lieutenant Michael Johnston of the Maine State Police with their Champion of Change Award for his work in implementing new protective laws, particularly those aimed at removing firearms from individuals deemed unsafe due to domestic abuse. The organization is also introducing the Deb Chapman Legacy Award, which will be presented to an attorney involved in a domestic violence project. These awards highlight the importance of collaboration in supporting the health and safety of domestic abuse survivors.

InterAct, a domestic and sexual violence resource center in Raleigh, NC, is increasing staff to handle higher demand for support during the holidays. The center provides emergency shelters, a rape crisis facility, medical and forensic support, food assistance, housing, and financial education for survivors. They also train law enforcement on identifying and assisting victims and help remove individuals from dangerous situations. InterAct relies heavily on federal funding through the Victims of Crime Act, which has seen significant cuts and faces more reductions in 2025. Executive Director Rhonda Raney emphasized the critical need for continued community support, highlighting the organization's 45-year history of helping survivors rebuild lives free from violence. As the holiday season approaches, InterAct urges the public to consider supporting their mission.

Governor Kay Ivey and Alabama’s Domestic Violence Trust Fund are providing additional support for domestic violence victims. Established in 2015 and funded by a marriage recording fee, the Trust Fund will allocate over $185,000 to organizations aiding victims, including $105,000 for the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence and $80,000 for the Office of Prosecution Services. These funds, managed by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), help create safe havens and support services for victims and families escaping abuse. Organizations across Alabama, including Safeplace Inc., AshaKiran Inc., and Penelope House, will receive funding to continue their vital work in multiple counties. Governor Ivey and ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell emphasize the importance of these efforts in helping victims rebuild their lives.