Testify Against Your Abuser in DV Cases
She was stabbed to death while pregnant. Ms. Chilel was 20 weeks pregnant, and was the mother of two, when the father of her children went into a rage and killed her. Neighbors commented that the admitted killer had the face of a madman and was prone to extreme jealousy. It was only after Ms. Chilel failed to pick up her two children from daycare that police arrived at the home to discover the tragedy. Unfortunately, the history of violence in the home was a precursor to the wretched ending to Chilel’s life.
Previous Instances of Domestic Violence
As far back as 2016, Chilel’s husband had faced charges of Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Female. Then seven months pregnant, Chilel had been stabbed by her aggressor then. Regrettably, she refused to participate in the prosecution, and the charges were dropped.
The following year domestic battery charges were filed yet again, but Chilel failed to appear, so the case was again dropped.
Now, in 2024, Chilel was dead, leaving two young daughters motherless. Her husband confessed to the killing and was suicidal when arrested.
Is it Worth Pursuing in Court?
When domestic violence (DV) cases are fully prosecuted, offenders are incarcerated most of the time. So why do so many situations like Chilel’s fill the airwaves? The answer is not simple. That’s because control is at the center of abusive relationships. Survivors who try to leave the relationship are often met with greater restraints from their abusers, resulting in the attempt to leave being the most dangerous time of all for those fearing their violent partners.
Horrifying Numbers
Chilel’s story is not unique. Of the myriad charges filed in domestic violence cases, as many as 80 percent never make it to court because victims fail to press charges or cooperate with prosecutors to put their abusers away. Why are so many cases dropped? There are many reasons, including:
- Fear of retribution;
- Fear of being unable to support oneself and children alone;
- Belief they deserved the abuse;
- Lack of options moving forward;
- No family support system near to help with a major life transition;
- Distrust of the legal system;
- Deep religious beliefs that women must submit to men;
- Promises from the abuser that things will change.
Reasons to Use the System to Fight Back
Yes, it is frightening to fight back against a monster. But there are clear and overwhelming reasons to do so. For starters, you deserve to be happy and healthy. You do not deserve this abuse. Moreover, your children deserve a healthy environment, and an emotionally and mentally present parent. A new and better life is possible. These reasons are bigger than anything that’s holding you back.
Legal Steps
The knowledgeable and experienced Miami domestic violence attorneys at The Law Office of Julia Kefalinos understand that there is nothing easy about leaving an abusive partner. We can help you find a safe alternative to living in fear. To discuss in a safe and confidential setting, schedule a consultation in our Miami office today.
Source:
local10.com/news/local/2024/11/17/history-of-domestic-disputes-ends-with-horrific-murder-of-pregnant-mother-of-2-in-hallandale-beach/
