New Hampshire: The violent state
There is something deeply disturbing going on in our tiny state regarding the handling of domestic violence. All too often, victims are seeking assistance and being ignored, mocked, patronized and further traumatized by the gross mishandling of the police, courts and the public. We need to put heavier scrutiny on our public workers, and demand that the laws and processes be changed to provide assistance for those seeking safety. This system is horridly flawed and we are allowing it to continue unchecked. Our tiny state has become nationally known for horrid cases involving violence against women and children — and yet we offer no genuine support or avenue for those trying to free themselves of an abuser.
Our domestic violence centers have no resources or funds, there are no avenues for legal advice or assistance, and the courts offer little to no help when it comes to navigating an already confusing and frustrating process. We need better programs, harder punishments and stricter scrutiny on our elected officials. We are creating a world where abusers have no consequences until it’s too late, while violence lurks in the homes of every neighborhood.