***MEDIA ADVISORY***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 01, 2021

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

Media Contact: Vicki Elaine Becker (574) 296-1888

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects people of all ages, socio-economic status, gender, race and nationality. It could affect your neighbor, your co-worker or someone in your family.

According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2010 Summary Report, an average of 20 people in the United States experience intimate partner violence every minute. That equates to more than 10 Million abuse victims annually, but this is just the tip of the iceberg. As a result of abuse, victims of domestic violence suffer emotional trauma, need medical assistance and may lose their jobs and housing as a result of the abuse. Children in homes experiencing domestic violence suffer from higher rates of poor sleep quality and physical health problems. In addition, their social skills, behavior, academic and intellectual skills, and emotional well-being are often negatively impacted.

Elkhart County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney Victim Assistance is committed to helping all victims of crime, including those experiencing domestic violence. Throughout the month of October, Victim Advocates will be sharing what being an advocate means to them as well as important facts about domestic violence on the Elkhart County Prosecutor Facebook page.

As a community, we can make an impact. Familiarize yourself with signs of potential abuse. Bruises, black eyes and unexplained injuries can be some apparent signs, especially if the victim has constant excuses for these injuries. Other signs of abuse include sudden personality changes, loss of self-esteem, withdrawing from family and friends, never having money or constantly checking in with their partner. If you think someone you know may be suffering from abuse, say something. Let them know you care and are available to help, contact Elkhart County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney Victim Assistance at (574) 523-2237 or contact local law enforcement. Your report can be anonymous. The important thing is getting them the help and resources they need.

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“Under Indiana law, all persons arrested for a criminal offense are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”