DV in the News

The reality of domestic violence hit especially close to home for residents of Canyon and Ada Counties this month. The homicide of Nampa resident, Selena Thomas, by her fiance, was not only a tragedy but a wake-up call for many as to the prevalence of domestic violence in our communities. The WCA’s 24-hour crisis line has seen an increase in callers since the incident; some callers concerned for themselves, others concerned for their friends and family. The mother of Thomas urged individuals to know the warning signs of abuse and get away before it’s too late. The WCA’s Executive Director, Bea Black, spoke to Fox9 about what exactly these warning signs are and provided safety tips for people in abusive relationships.

SAFETY TIPS
1.      Plan in advance a safe house or shelter to go to.

2.      Decide how you would get there.

3.      Have a bag packed with the following items:

• 1-2 days clothing, important papers (birth certificates, social security cards), extra keys, small amount of cash, prescription medications

4.      Know where to call for help (See WCA Shoe Card)

5.      Leave when you are aware of danger or threat of being hurt.

WARNING SIGNS You may be in an abusive relationship if your spouse, partner or a family member:

• Intimidates or threatens to hurt you, your family, or pets.
• Touches you in ways that hurt or scare you.
• Insults you in public.
• Limits where you go, who you see, and what you do.

For the full story and list, click here.

For more details on the Selena Thomas case:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/08/21/3334726_three-charged-with-aiding-abetting.html?sp=/99/1687/&rh=1

http://www.jrn.com/kivitv/news/Domestic-abuse-hotline-lights-up-following-death-of-Selena-Thomas-272372341.html

http://www.jrn.com/kivitv/news/Warning-signs-of-domestic-violence-272256321.html