According to the Rockford Police Department, there has been a dramatic increase in violent assaults and gun shots in 2015. In fact the numbers are up 84% from January 1, 2015 – March 31, 2015 compared to the same time frame in 2014. A police deputy stated that the two main contributors to this increase are domestic violence and gangs. Domestic violence accounts for 25% of the calls to the Rockford police. He said often times when there is domestic abuse, there are other issues as well, such as child abuse or neglect.
Domestic violence is clearly a big issue in Rockford. It can affect many people each year, including the friends and family of the victims who help deal with the aftermath of the domestic violence. It can also be very detrimental for the children involved in the relationship, even if they are not physically abused themselves. It is important to many victims to get out of these dangerous relationships, but oftentimes they may not know how they can protect themselves from the abusers.
One way that the victims can protect themselves is by obtaining an order of protection. These orders prohibit the abuser from contacting the victim and prohibit the abuser from going to the victim’s home or place of work. If necessary, the orders can also prohibit the abuser from going within a certain distance of the victim, their home or work. If the abuser does contact the victim, they can be arrested and charged with a crime.
Domestic violence is a very real and big problem in Rockford. Many people are affected by the violence each year. However, the victims can help protect themselves by obtaining an order of protection to prohibit the abuser from contacting them. Experienced attorneys understand the devastating effects of domestic violence and may be able to help one gain the protection they need.
Source: Rockford Registered Star, “Gangs and domestic violence behind spike in Winnebago County violent crimes” Chris Green, April 8, 2015