Since 1989, October has been de- signated as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It reminds us to acknowledge survivors of domestic violence and speak up for its victims.
Unfortunately, our community has seen two heartbreaking, deadly domestic violence cases in just the last month, both which left young children traumatized and parentless.
We as a community will stand behind these innocent kids and families and make sure they have the resources they need.
Domestic violence often includes a larger, systematic pattern of emotional abuse, dominance, and control. The pain and trauma of domestic violence can last a lifetime.
Sadly, domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects people of every age, socio-economic status, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or nationality. Domestic violence can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death.
Even though we’ve made progress in reducing domestic violence, statistics show there are more than 10 million abuse victims annually in the United States. Every day, millions of people—children and adults—live in silent fear within their own homes.
The domestic violence calls handled by the Sheriff’s Office this year (through Oct. 8) show a 10 percent increase over the same timeframe in 2021:
Domestic violence calls for service:
Stories and statistics are heartbreaking.
There are caring organizations and people in Volusia County and across Florida who can help victims of domestic violence escape abusive relationships and empower them to become survivors.
Anyone who is in an abusive relationship—as well as friends, family members, and other community members—can contact any domestic violence center through 24-hour hotlines.
If you, your children, or grandchildren live in an abusive situation, here are some resources that can help:
You can always contact 911 to report domestic violence.
If you can’t safely make a phone call, you can even send a text to 911. Texting during an emergency could be helpful if a voice call to 911 might be dangerous or impossible. Re-member: You cannot text message to 911 without a service contract that has texting.
The Volusia Sheriff’s Office is committed to caring for our community and bringing the resources needed to stay safe.
Sheriff Chitwood