Domestic Violence: What You Need To Know

A domestic disturbance in Innisfil has prompted police to remind folks there are options. Around 10:30 Thursday night, a woman went to South Simcoe Police headquarters to report an altercation with her boyfriend. Investigators claim she’d been assaulted, but didn’t require medical attention. A 47-year-old man faces charges and is under court order not to make contact with the victim.

From South Simcoe Police: “Domestic violence is a serious crime. Domestic violence is any use of physical or sexual force, actual or threatened, by your partner or ex-partner. Threatening, hitting, kicking, punching, pushing, stalking and harassing another person are crimes. Having sex with a person against that person’s will is also a crime. Being married does not change this. A person committing these acts can be arrested, charged, convicted and jailed.

Domestic violence can also include threats to harm children, other members of a family, pets and property. Domestic violence is committed primarily by men towards women. However, domestic violence can be committed by women against men and also occurs in same-sex relationships.

Domestic violence can be a one-time use of force. However, often these crimes happen in a pattern. The violence might be meant to scare, intimidate or humiliate, or to make a person feel powerless. The violence might also include a number of acts that could sound minor by themselves, but together make up a pattern of abuse.

Domestic violence can also take the form of psychological/emotional abuse, verbal abuse, and economic/financial abuse. Although not always considered criminal offences, these forms of abuse are very serious.

If you or your children are experiencing domestic violence, you are not alone. There is help available for you. If you feel you are in danger, you can call 911.

If you have been physically or sexually assaulted, you can call the police. The police, with your permission, can call Victim Crisis and Assistance and Referral Services (VCARS). Barrie and Area VCARS has an office located inside the South Simcoe Police – North Division and their volunteers can provide you with short-term assistance, such as emotional support, financial assistance through the Victim Quick Response Program and referral to community agencies.”