YWCA Responds to Recent Domestic Violence

Although we are unable to predict when someone may commit a lethal act, there are warning signs of increased risk. Behavioural indicators that often preceed a violent act include:

The most dangerous time is attempting to or recently ending the relationship.

The primary indicators and warning signs:

If the partner/batterer/person

Threatens to kill the partner: "If I can't have you, no one will."

Threatens to commit suicide: "I'll kill myself if you leave me, I can't live without you."

If they own or have access to a weapon/gun

History of stalking: Showing up at the victims house, school,work, friend's, following or showing up at public places to see the victim. Following the victim  and friends to a mall or movie or football game.

Signs of Increase in jealousy/possessiveness: "Where are you, what are you doing, who are you with."

Signs of depression: Does the partner admit or display signs of depression or hopelessness with the loss of the relationship.

History of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction:

Escalation of violence/threat or intimidation: Violence begins increasing, verbal threats or intimidation by phone, text, or E-mail.

History of previous violence or crime: Partner has a history of violence or crimes against friends, siblings, family members, bullying, assault, trespass, harassment, etc. Previous incidents or restraint such as "preventing a partner from leaving or escaping a home, public place, school or vehicle." "Please don't leave, I just need to talk to you, I just don't want to let you go."

History of pet or animal abuse: Kicking, hitting, throwing, burning or any cruelty to any animals.

Unemployment or if the partner recently Dropped Out or Quit School is an increased risk factor as well.