Domestic violence incidents reported to the Columbus Police Department dropped 31 percent from 2012 to 2015, according to the department’s 2015 annual report.
But people who work with domestic violence victims see an increase in reported cases, rather than a decrease, as positive news.
“That means people are reaching out for the help and resources,” said Stephanie Cunningham, director of prevention for Turning Point Domestic Violence Services.
Others who continue to hide in fear, reluctant to speak out about their abuse, may be in the greatest danger, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence.
More than 40 people gathered in front of Harrison College on Wednesday to remember those Hoosiers who will never have a chance to speak out again.
The names of 55 Hoosiers — victims and perpetrators – who died in domestic violence incidents over a one-year period were read during the 11th annual Clothesline Project.
Two of the names written on displayed T-shirts were from Columbus. Dormarie Santiago Rolon, 33, and Marlon A. Diaz, 39, died Sept. 17, 2015, during an apparent homicide-suicide.
Domestic claimed Hoosiers ranging from five weeks old to 80 years old, said Carrie Kruse, Turning Point director of direct services.
For more on this story, see Saturday’s Republic.
