Domestic Violence (DV) Awareness

Important Safety Information

For victims of abuse, using a computer at home, or where an abuser has access to it, can be very dangerous. It is impossible to erase all computer history. Additionally, spyware can be installed onto your computer without your knowledge and give the abuser ways to track and monitor your computer activity.

We highly recommend that you use a computer that you know is “safe,” and that the abuser has no access to. You can go to a trusted friend’s home, a public library, internet café or domestic violence prevention center in your community. With the advances in technology and the unprecedented access that others can gain regarding your information on the Internet, it is important that you follow your intuition when it comes to your search for help and safety.

Domestic violence is a crime without boundaries. It affects children, adults, elderly and the disabled. It affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate against, race, religion or economic class.

Statistics show us that one of six women will be the victim of domestic violence. In the United States, a woman is physically assaulted every 15 seconds. Domestic violence is not just a family matter. It is a crime with serious and sometimes fatal consequences for the victim, the children and the community.

The Division of Protection and Permanency believes that, as best practice, we need to encourage and support collaborative approaches to helping all persons who are or have been affected by Domestic Violence.  It is our hope that this Web site will be a valuable resource to those who are trying to break the cycle of violence. Whether you are a victim of domestic violence, a friend or family member, an advocate or an abuser, information you need for help can be found here.

This Web site was created by the Division of Protection and Permanency to increase awareness of domestic violence and your responsibility to report it. This site includes:

• Lists of the various signs of abuse
• Statistics that show the extent of the problem
• News releases from both a state and national level
• Resources that are available to help those affected by domestic violence
• Safety planning suggestions
• Phone numbers for district courts and victims advocates groups
• Links to various Web sites addressing domestic violence

We hope that you will visit this site often. We will update it as more information becomes available.