Many victims of domestic violence either suffer in silence or do not know how to break away from their abuser.
Paarl Post (sister publication of Weskus Nuus) asked Sgt Lizette Green, a domestic violence coordinator, a few questions about her work experience.
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is any form of abuse against women, men and children. This includes people of all genders and sexuality. There are different types of abuse – physical, sexual, emotional, economical, intimidation, harassment and damage to property. In certain circumstances the victims have no choice but to remain on the same premises as the abuser. In such instances a protection order can state that the abuser is not allowed to enter the residence they occupy, whether it’s a flat or room.
What are the steps to follow when a victim of domestic violence wants to lay a charge?
The victim can go to his/her nearest police station to lay a criminal charge and to their local magistrates’ court to apply for a protection order against the abuser. When the complaint is taken at the police station the complainant is always advised to seek a protection order against the abuser.
What is the charge called?
It depends on the nature of the abuse sustained by the complainant – for example, if the complainant was struck with an instrument it would amount to a charge of assault against the abuser.
How does restraining orders work?
The victim can go to the magistrates’ court to apply for a protection order for themselves or for someone who needs assistance, but cannot obtain it, for example a mentally disabled person a senior citizen and an underage child. The victim will have to provide a statement and, if proof is available, provide that to the court as well. The magistrate will review the restraining order and then approve it. A copy will be provided to the abuser (accused) and the complainant will be in possession of one too. A copy will also be available at court and the nearest police station.
What are the offences that warrants a restraining order?
Any form of abuse within the relationship between the victim and perpetrator is defined in the domestic violence criteria.
What is the most common things you see/experience in these cases?
Regarding the victim: most are women and they fall back into the relationship and withdraw the cases.
Regarding the abuser: Most are men who are the breadwinners, and they have a financial and emotional hold on the victim, and this is the power they exercise over them.
Parents as victims: This trend is escalating where more and more parents are being abused by their children for financial gain due to either drug addiction or loss of income.
How many cases gets withdrawn by the victim?
In many instances the cases are withdrawn only to be repeated later again after being abused again.
How does it work when the victim, wants to drop the charge?
The victim should make contact with the investigating official who will then take a withdrawal statement and provide the case file to the prosecutor to make a decision regarding the withdrawal.
“In many instances the same complainant is at the police station week-in and week-out to lay charges against the abuser, only to withdraw these charges week after week. The danger of this cycle is to continue greatly increases the risk of the abuse escalating by the abuser. Break the silence and ensure you have a support group to help you.”
