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Domestic Violence Awareness
Kendall Herold
Story Created:
Oct 27, 2009 at 4:32 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Oct 27, 2009 at 9:50 PM CDT
According to the Salvation Army, since September of 2009, there have been 67 homicides in the state of Georgia that were a result of domestic violence.
The Salvation Army Safe House located in Middle Georgia has processed 140 temporary protective orders just this year, and helped protect 164 women and children.
Major Fred Thornhill with the Salvation Army says, "We also provide individual counseling, group counseling, we work with different agencies in the community to help that family get back on their feet, get back into housing."
For many victims, this first step to safety is the hardest.
"For many who are in this situation, they're afraid to leave. They don't have a place to go. And then something bad happens," adds Mjr. Fred Thornill.
Just this weekend, 35 year old Cynthia Rhodes became a victim of domestic violence. Her husband, Bernard Rhodes, shot her in the head after a domestic dispute. Mrs. Rhodes was in a coma for almost two days, and was pronounced dead Sunday evening. Her husband made his first court appearance Monday, and was denied bond.
Houston County District Attorney Kelly Burke says domestic violence cases come with a heavy charge.
Kelly Burke
"We just recently convicted a man on 3 counts of aggravated stalking. He got ten years, serving 5 in prison. And all he did was send some email to her."
Burke says most of the time, domestic violence is learned conduct for the abuser, and the victim has to make the decision to fight for their safety.
Both Macon and Warner Robins have safe houses. You can contact the Salvation Army Crisis Line at 478-923-6294.
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Renee Barreth said on Wednesday, Oct 28 at 11:47 AM
Good coverage on this topic. The Macon Rescue Mission also serves female victims of family violence and their children. The Dove Center offers a six month faith based residential program. We provide the tools and resources to equip these survivors to be able to live in a safe and stable environment on their own. Renee Barreth Macon Rescue Mission Women's Division Director
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