In Virginia last year, nearly 29,000 victims of family violence sought services from shelter programs, and more than 7,000 were provided with emergency shelter. On the Peninsula, nearly 11,000 nights of shelter were provided for 834 abused women and children. In 1996, the Hampton Police Division received 602 reports of family violence; 486 of them were between husbands and wives or boyfriends and girlfriends.
Family violence, known as domestic violence or wife beating, involves the systematic use of force, threats, and/or intimidation by any individual, male or female, upon another in order for the dominating person to have control over the victim. Family violence is any abuse between family or household members including physical, emotional, sexual, and economic.
Transitions Family Violence Services, in conjunction with the Hampton Police Division, Hampton Commonwealth Attorney's Office, Hampton Department of Social Services, Hampton Court Services Unit and the Hampton Magistrate's Office; work together to provide services to those in need. Transitions Family Violence Services offers a 24 hour hotline, referral services, emergency sheltering, transitional sheltering, children's programs, counseling services, support groups and community and employment education.
Characteristics of an Abuser
- Controls the victim physically, mentally & emotionally.
- Possessive & jealous over victim.
- Uses alcohol, drugs & battering as coping methods.
Indicators of Abuse
- Broken bones, bruises & scratches.
- Victim accepts responsibility for the abuse.
- Forbidden from using the phone, seeing friends alone, having access to money or getting a job.
What Can You Do To Help?
If you know someone who is being abused, help is available.
THEY SHOULD:
- Call the police at 727-6111.
- CALL the Transitions Family Violence Services HOTLINE at 723-7774.
- If injured, go to the emergency room and save evidence such as medical reports, photos, and torn clothing.
- If necessary, gather important documents and seek a safe place to stay.
- To press charges, ask the Magistrate's office to issue a warrant.
- A Protective Order may be issued by the Magistrate or the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.