‘It’s a cycle’: Macon DA speaks at Domestic Violence Awareness Symposium

According to CDC data from the National Intimate Partner and sexual violence survey, an average of 20 people are physically abused every minute in the United States. 

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – District Attorney Anita Howard focused on recognizing the warning signs and breaking the cycle of abuse Wednesday at the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Symposium at Wesleyan College.

The event addressed all types of domestic violence, including physical, emotional and financial abuse. According to CDC data from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, an average of 20 people are physically abused every minute in the United States.

Attorney Howard said domestic violence takes many forms, and education is key.

“What I’m seeing in the community is all forms of domestic violence, and that’s why this event is important because we want to educate the community that domestic violence can be physical, mental—it can be even financial—and we want to make sure what to look for,” said Howard.

Assistant District Attorney Amber Cook said she has represented many domestic violence cases in Bibb County, with financial abuse being one of the most common.

“It’s still our duty to protect them,” she said. “The fact that they live in poverty; we have so many organizations within the community that aid these people—Georgia Legal Services, Crisis Lines, Safe House. There are so many organizations that can help people. That’s why this event is so important, to let people within the community know about these organizations that can help people, especially our victims and survivors.”

Howard said domestic violence affects everyone in the community, and the symposium helps educate both the public and those in the justice system.

“We have law enforcement here; we’ve invited judges,” she said. “We’re educating the community because it is a cycle of domestic violence. And I think that’s the hardest part about domestic violence—it is a cycle.”

Cook says leaving an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous time for victims.

“Give these people grace,” she said. “If they say I’m leaving and I’m done, then they go back, something has happened. Chances are someone’s life has been put at risk. Not just on their own, they will threaten people’s family members and loved ones and use that as a way to keep people. So, just give them grace while they’re going through this process of trying to leave.”

Attorney Howard suggests if you or someone you know is being affected by domestic violence, contact law enforcement or visit One Safe Place, where victims can access lifesaving services.