Marion County Child Abuse Statistics
Every night in Marion County, children lie awake, shivering in terror of the violence in the next room. In 2006, the City of Ocala had 593 reported cases of domestic violence and Marion County had 1,953 (2,546 total). In 2007, the City of Ocala had 535 reported cases of domestic violence and Marion County had 1,923 (2,458 total). And sadly, the reported numbers represent a fraction of the domestic abuse in our community.
All too often, children are the silent victims of domestic abuse; it is not only a domestic issue. But if we work together, we can end the tears of the adults and children who suffer from this all too prevalent problem.
Signs of abuse may be very obvious or subtle. Look for the following if you suspect domestic violence:
- Unexplained, bruises, broken bones, unusual red marks
- Excessive clothing or makeup that may be hiding marks
- Suspicious behaviors such as always watching the clock
- Always seeking permission to make plans
- Not socializing with friends or work associates
- Jumpiness or being easily startled
- Lack of energy
- Poor self-esteem
- Inability to make eye contact
- Not allowed to make any decisions
- Finances controlled by one person
- Not allowed to use the telephone, or
- Isolation from family or friends
You can help by:
- Calling police if you see or hear evidence of domestic violence
- Speaking out publicly
- Listening to and believing the victim, while not passing judgment on him or her or the abuser
- Encouraging the victim and help him or her develop a safety plan
- Having information available and offering it in a safe, private location
- Ask if he or she is safe right now or in immediate danger, and
- Call 911 if immediate danger is present
|
