Domestic Violence Awareness Month opens up conversation, connects community with resources
DELMARVA – “Unfortunately, we do see these calls. Life is not perfect, and we want our residents to know that you do not have to live in fear,” Sheriff Crisafulli said.
In 2021, more than 58,000 domestic violence incidents were reported to law enforcement agencies statewide, that’s according to the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence.
Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli said those are some of most dangerous calls that deputies can respond to. “Statistically speaking, as these incidents continue to occur, they can become more and more volatile,” he said.
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to open up the conversation on the topic and support survivors. The Cricket Center is the child advocacy network in Worcester County, primarily serving children impacted by sexual and physical abuse.
Executive Director Lauren Cooper told 47ABC they often see an overlap with those same children experiencing domestic violence in their homes. “During that child’s forensic interview, sometimes they’ll disclose that mom and dad fight or that they’re not the only victim of abuse in the home. That often times leads to hopefully intervention by our team because a lot of times it’s falls down to the lack of support that people have. That puts them at greater risks,” Cooper said.
Cooper added that the impacts aren’t just physical. “With that trauma sometimes come post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and even depression. We also see some behavioral regression in children when they experience these kinds of things,” she said.
Survivor support has also been extended to voting as The Maryland State Board Elections said voters can apply at their local board of elections sites under “persons being threatened.”
Once proof is provided, their information will be confidential. “Voter registration data is of course public. This just another layer of protection for those survivors of domestic violence to make their voices are still heard,” MD State Administrator of Elections Jared DeMarinis said.
To be eligible for voter confidentiality, proof must be shown such as a restraining order, police report or a statement from a social services agency.
Sheriff Matt Crisafulli urges those currently at risk of or currently experiencing domestic violence to contact their local law enforcement agencies.
The Cricket Center is the local, direct hotline for all child abuse allegations. That number is (410)-641- 0097.
