Domestic Violence Statistics in Wisconsin

Domestic violence is a very serious, but prevalent crime in the US. The US Department of Justice defines domestic abuse as, "a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner." Abuse can manifest itself in a variety of forms -- physically, emotionally, psychologically, sexually or economically. The statistics on abuse in the US are, indeed, alarming. But it's important to examine these numbers to realize just how often it occurs and how we can begin to change for the better.

By the Numbers: Domestic Abuse in the United States

• In the US, an estimated 20 people are physically abused by intimate partners every minute. Using some quick math, this amounts to 10 million abuse victims each year.
  
• On average, domestic violence hotlines receive over 20,000 calls per day.
  
• 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been physically abused by an intimate partner.
  
• Intimate partner violence accounts for 15% of all violent crime.
  
• 1 in 7 women and 1 in 18 men have been stalked. Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear.
  
• 66% of female stalking victims reported that the offender is or was an intimate partner.
  
• 9% of women have been raped by an intimate partner.
  

By the Numbers: Domestic Abuse in Wisconsin

• In Wisconsin, over half of domestic violence homicides are committed with a gun.
  
• An estimated 12.7% of women in Wisconsin will be stalked in their lifetimes.
  
• In 2013, 55 people died in domestic-related homicides.
  
• In 2012, more than 28,000 domestic violence incidents were referred to district attorneys. This does not account for unreported incidents, dating abuse incidents, or cases that were not prosecuted.
  
• An estimated half of all domestic violence incidents are reported to police.
  

What are some red flags to look for?

There are several signs to watch for if you suspect you or a loved one are a victim of domestic abuse. If you experience the following, you may be a victim of abuse:

• If you are afraid of your partner.
  
• If your partner threatens to harm you or someone you love.
  
• If your partner throws or punches things while angry.
  
• If they constantly belittle you to make you feel worthless.
  
• If your partner steals money from you or prevents you from working at a job.
  
• If they make you cut ties with friends and family.
  
• If your partner forces you to perform sexual acts
  

If somebody close to you exhibits the following behavior, they may be a victim of abuse:

• They suddenly exhibit low self-esteem or have other personality changes.
  
• They are constantly checking in with their partner or are overly concerned with pleasing them.
  
• They skip out on work or social events for no reason.
  
• They wear clothes that are out of season. (Often, victims will wear long sleeves in the summer to cover bruises.)
  

If you or someone you know are being abused, call the domestic abuse hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) from a friend or relative's home, safely away from the abuser. If it's an emergency, dial 911.

If you are accused of domestic abuse, it's no joke. Domestic violence is a serious subject and has extremely severe penalties. Even if you're innocent, it can ruin your reputation. If you stand accused of domestic abuse, you need experienced law professionals on your side to stand up for your rights. Southworth & Stamman have extensive experience in defending clients against accusations of domestic violence and will be on your side even if it seems that no one else is. Get in touch if you stand accused -- don't give up without a fight.