October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and serves to highlight the impact of domestic violence in our community and throughout the United States. The Natchitoches District Attorney’s Office is calling on the community to help end domestic violence. This October, advocates, law enforcement, and community stakeholders are raising awareness about the issue and encouraging everyone to take action.
Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of their circumstances, socioeconomic background, or cultural association. Domestic violence is more common than many people realize. In fact, 35% of women and 12% of men in Louisiana have experienced it at some point in their lives.
“Domestic violence often goes unnoticed,” said District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington. “Raising awareness is crucial for encouraging people to report abuse and to hold perpetrators accountable.”
Harrington continued, “We offer comprehensive support to victims of domestic violence. Our office has a dedicated victims assistance coordinator who works with victims to ensure they receive the help they need, including assistance with victims’ rights in the judicial process.”
Alice Hardison, the victim assistance coordinator for the District Attorney’s Office, plays a crucial role in supporting survivors of crime.
“Our goal is to ensure that victims feel heard, understood, and empowered throughout the legal process,” she said. “We work closely with them to provide the support they need including accompanying victims to court hearings, helping them prepare victim impact statements, and communicating with prosecutors on their behalf.”
The number of domestic violence cases in Natchitoches Parish is rising, following a national pattern. Domestic violence can involve physical and sexual abuse, stalking, threats, and harassment.
Natchitoches Parish has seen a troubling rise in domestic violence incidents in 2024. Compared to 2023, when there were 114 calls parish wide to law enforcement regarding domestic violence disturbances, the parish has already received 143 such calls through September 30th of this year. This represents a concerning 26% increase, and with three months remaining.
Furthermore, cyberstalking and bullying have become increasingly prevalent, with numerous calls to law enforcement related to cyberstalking since the beginning of 2023. Cyberstalking is a form of harassment that uses social media or mobile devices to stalk or harass someone. It can include sending unwanted or threatening messages, posting embarrassing or harmful information online, tracking someone’s location, or using technology to monitor someone’s activities.
Domestic violence can cause severe mental health consequences, such as anxiety and depression. The constant fear, stress, and isolation can erode a person’s self-esteem and confidence, leading to feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and sadness. Victims of domestic violence may also have trouble with relationships, trust, and a distorted sense of self. These mental health issues can have a long-term impact on their overall well-being.
A troubling aspect of some domestic violence cases includes the violence occurring in the presence of a child. In these cases, District Attorney’s Office prosecutors invoke the Louisiana “Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault Child Endangerment Law”, which enhances the criminal penalties of an domestic violence aggressor when a child who is 13 years or younger is present during the violence.
Domestic violence can have a significant impact on children who witness or experience it. “Children who witness domestic violence are more likely to become victims themselves. The trauma of living in a violent home can have a lasting impact on their emotional and psychological well-being,” said Hardison.
“We will not ignore, excuse, or tolerate domestic violence in our parish. Perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions, and we will work to ensure that victims receive the justice they deserve, said District Attorney Harrington.
“While prosecution is an important part of our work, we also believe in prevention. By raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of domestic violence, we can help create a safer community for everyone.”
Domestic Violence Awareness Month was established in 1987 to raise awareness about domestic violence and support victims and survivors. This year is also the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act, a groundbreaking law passed in 1994 to address domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other forms of partner-based violence.
“Domestic violence is a serious issue that aff ects our community,” said District Attorney Harrington. “If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact local enforcement for assistance. If in immediate danger, call 911 for emergency response. You can also contact the Louisiana Domestic Violence Statewide Hotline at (888) 411-1333, which is open 24 hours per day, for confi dential support and resources. Let’s work together to break the cycle of domestic violence and create a safer community for everyone.”