Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs reconvened the Orange County Domestic Violence Commission today. The Commission will develop strategies to combat the growing domestic violence problem in Orange County and will be co-chaired by Dick Batchelor and Judge Alice Blackwell.
Every year, 1 out of every 3 female homicide victims is murdered by her current or former partner. In 2011, law enforcement in Orange County handled 8,500 911 calls for domestic violence incidents. Over the past 12 months, there were 27 domestic violence deaths. That means one person is murdered every two weeks in this community as a result of domestic violence.
“I have reconvened the Orange County Domestic Violence Commission to develop strategies and solutions addressing the rise in domestic violence incidents in our region,” said Mayor Jacobs. “The commission will thoroughly examine the issue and determine what additional steps can be taken to provide protection and resources for the victims of domestic violence.”
Orange County Chief Judge Belvin Perry, Clerk of Courts Lydia Gardner, and other community partners and stakeholders such as Harbor House CEO Carol Wick, Sheriff Jerry Demings, and State Attorney Jeff Ashton were in attendance.
“I am extremely pleased that community leaders Dick Batchelor and Judge Alice Blackwell have agreed to co-chair this endeavor,” added Jacobs. “I am also proud of the support we have received from a broad coalition of supporters.”
