WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and SportsAn alarming spike in domestic homicides
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MADISON (WKOW) -- Dane County along with the rest of Wisconsin is seeing a spike in domestic homicides.
According to The Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 46 domestic violence cases resulted in 59 deaths in 2009. Up from 36 in 2008.
Domestic Abuse Intervention Services says there were seven domestic violence related murders and three attempted homicides in 09' compared to five homicides in 2008.
"It's not only that our numbers have gone up, but we are hearing from the clients we serve say the severity of violence they experience has gotten worse," says Shannon Barry with Domestic Abuse Intervention Services.
Barry says her organization is helping more victims of abuse than ever before.
In 2009, the number of victims calling for shelter away from an abusive partner was up 144 percent.
One contributing factor, the economy.
"What we're hearing from the people we serve is that there isn't very many resources available to them so they are trying to stick it out longer and not seeking help because they think there is no help available," Barry says.
Another, fear.
"When these cases are reported in the media, these abusers will use them against their victims saying 'look this could be you,'" Barry says.
State lawmakers hope to keep domestic violence from becoming domestic homicides.
A senate bill proposes to make sure those convicted of any kind of domestic abuse can not own a gun.
"We want to say to these folks , if you have a weapon in their possession, you can get ten years in prison, or a $25,000 fine or both," said Milwaukee Senator Spencer Coggs.
There is no way in knowing whether this proposed law would have prevented November's mass shooting or December's quadruple murder.
Senator Coggs hopes, if passed, it would deter violence from turning to homicide.
Barry says the main thing victims need to know is that there is help out there.
Domestic Abuse Intervention Services Crisis Hotline is open 24 hours.
It provides support, information, referrals to other community agencies and safety planning.
That number is 608-251-4445.
For the Domestic Abuse Intervention Services web site click here.
Online reporting by Brian Rodriguez
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