CHICAGO (WLS) — An alarming number of people lose their lives to domestic violence.
In Illinois, that number will more than double in 2023, according to one advocacy group.
The revelations have sparked calls for tougher laws to protect survivors.
Typically, the Illinois Coalition to Prevent Domestic Violence doesn’t release its annual report until October, but after noticing a 110% increase in domestic violence homicides in 2023, the coalition told ABC7 it felt compelled to release the numbers.
“This is a dramatic increase, and we felt like we couldn’t wait until October,” said Vicki Smith, former CEO of the Illinois Coalition to Prevent Domestic Violence.
Smith said the spike in domestic violence-related deaths in the state is concerning.
“When people start taking steps that are relevant to their own safety, it puts them at greater risk of increased violence,” Smith said.
Reference | Illinois domestic violence hotline sees 90% increase in calls compared to pre-pandemic
“The first two to three days after a protection order is issued are a very dangerous time,” said Amy Milligan, director of domestic violence services at Metropolitan Family Services.
Milligan is urging lawmakers to pass “Karina’s Bill,” named after Karina Gonzalez and her 15-year-old daughter, who were shot and killed in Little Village after filing for a protection order from her husband.
“We’re sitting here debating this bill while families, women and children are dying,” said Lauren Gutierrez, an attorney with Metropolitan Family Services.
“Karina’s Bill” would require police to remove firearms from a home if a victim receives a protection order. The Illinois Domestic Violence Prevention Coalition believes the bill will be effective after the coalition found that 94 domestic violence incidents occurred in 2023, resulting in 120 deaths. Data shows that the presence of a firearm in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%.
“Domestic violence affects every community, regardless of race or socioeconomic status,” Gutierrez said.
MFS said communities can help ease pressure on victims by believing them when they come forward, making them aware of support services in their neighbourhood and helping them find a safe place to call or have a discussion about getting help.
“If we can stop it, we need to do that,” Gutierrez said.
If you or someone you know needs support, we encourage you to call the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or 1-800-799-7233.
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