Domestic Violence
National statistics show violence against women in their own homes is the most common and least reported crime in the United States.
It can include verbal or emotional abuse, threats of abuse and/or physical violence ranging from slapping and shoving to severe beatings. In most instances, the beatings increase in frequency and intensity, sometimes leading to hospitalization and even death.
Nearly one in every four people experience domestic violence.
1.3 Million
1.3M people are victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year.
One-third of female homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner.
81% of women stalked by an intimate partner are physically assaulted.
31% of assaulted women are sexually assaulted.
Warning Signs of Abusers
Are you in Danger?
Leave.
Go to a friend or neighbor’s house or to an open, public building where you will be safe. Phone for help.
Call the police.
In Ohio, the police must arrest the abuser if they have good reason to believe a domestic crime of assault has occurred. If the police do not do anything, ask for the officer’s name and badge number and call their supervisor.
Call Sojourner House.
Call anytime, 24 hours a day. 330-747-4040 or our toll free number 866-436-6269. We can arrange emergency transportation and shelter for you from a designated, safe place. We can take you to get medical help if needed. We can help you explore your options.
Obtain a civil protection order (CPO).
A CPO is a court order that prohibits an abuser from having contact with you. A CPO is free, and you do not need a lawyer to obtain one. Go to the Mahoning County Courthouse and a Volunteer Advocacy Legal Unit (VALU) program worker will be there to assist you in filling out the necessary papers.
Cycle of Violence
Let’s work together to break this cycle of violence!
Escape Plan
- Have extra keys hidden.
- Keep extra changes of clothes at a friend’s house.
- Get copies of important papers (marriage certificate, birth certificate, social security cards, etc.)
- Confide in someone you can trust. Make them aware of your situation.
- Have an escape plan for yourself and your children.
- Keep prescription medication in your purse.
How are Children Affected?
Children are hurt both physically and emotionally by violence in their homes. These children often feel depressed, anxious, afraid and guilty. They live in constant fear of injury to their mothers and themselves. They may feel guilty about loving or hating the abuser and blame themselves for causing the violence; or feel utterly helpless about not being able to stop the violence.
They learn to accept violence as a way of life and as a way to solve problems. Witnessing violence between one’s parents or caretakers is the strongest risk factor of transmitting violent behavior from one generation to the next.
Victims Rights Toolkit - Marsy’s Law Rights
On November 7, 2017, 83% of Ohio voters passed Marsy's Law in an overwhelming show of support for Ohio's crime victims. Marsy's Law has changed the legal landscape for Ohio's crime victims, providing them with new, strengthened, and enforceable rights. Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center believes that all crime victims have the right to learn about, and exercise their Marsy's Law rights. Please visit the Victims' Rights Toolkit to learn about victims' Marsy's Law rights.
You Are Never Alone
About Compass Family & Community Services
Our mission is to provide services that will empower, enhance and strengthen individuals and families of the Mahoning Valley through an array of services that respond to the changing needs of the community.
Our vision is to be recognized and respected as a leading community and family service agency that is distinguished by its unique ability to provide comprehensive, easily accessible and timely services.
Sojourner House is a program of COMPASS Family & Community Services.