News Flash

October is Domestic Violence Month. During this time we recognize and honor survivors, and educate our friends, families and communities about this uncomfortable issue in hopes of preventing future domestic violence. Domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systemic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence and emotional abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically; however, the one constant component of domestic violence is one partner's consistent efforts to maintain power and control over the other.

Domestic violence is an epidemic affecting individuals in every community, regardless of age, economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. It is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior that is only a fraction of the systematic pattern of dominance and control. Domestic violence can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and in severe cases, even death. The devastating physical, emotional, and psychological consequences of domestic violence can cross generations and last a lifetime.

If you would like more details regarding resources, please contact the Winston-Salem Police Department Victim Assistance Unit at 336-773-7741 and/or 336-773-7860.

Learn more information or obtain resources on our Domestic Violence page.