FACTS About Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence is defined by the American Bar Association as actions when spouses, intimate partners or dates use physical violence threats, emotional abuse, harassment or stalking to control the behavior of their partners.
Domestic Violence crosses every race, age, religious and socio-economic background.
In the State of Florida last year, there were more than 120,000 cases of domestic violence reported. The horrific fact is that countless cases go unreported.
Minorities generally report domestic violence at a smaller percentage than do others.
Nearly a third of women murdered each year in the United States are killed by domestic violence.
Almost ½ of the households where domestic violence occurs also has a child under 12 years old. To quote President Bush, "There is more than one victim."
Children who witness domestic violence are prone to depression and anxiety.
Federal prosecutions related to domestic violence increased by 35% in 2002.