New tool introduced to help victims of domestic violence in Kentucky get justice

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Domestic violence is a problem that can't be ignored.

That was the message Friday from Kentucky's Attorney General. Russell Coleman introduced a new tool to help get justice for victims caught in a cycle of abuse.

"It is incredibly common," Brittany Scordo said. "More common than people know."

Everyday Scordo sees the realities of domestic violence firsthand, working at The Nest Center for Women, Children and Families in Lexington.

"People who you would never imagine have experienced violence," Scordo said.

She's spent her career helping victims get justice, but it's not an easy task.

"Victims who disclose domestic and sexual violence are scrutinized more than any other victim in my experience that I've encountered," Scordo said.

State data shows over 44% of women and nearly 33% of men will experience intimate partner physical violence or rape in Kentucky.

"It is such a vulnerable place to speak out and say what's happened to you," Scordo said. "These are very intimate crimes."

Last year, law enforcement filled out nearly 42,000 domestic violence reports statewide and police made about 7,700 domestic violence arrests.

But there's more work to do.

"It's a problem that we can't ignore, and we're not ignoring," Coleman said.

That's why Coleman unveiled a new Domestic Violence Prosecution Manual. It's a resource for police, prosecutors and victims' advocates.

Prosecutors said the manual is a tool they can use to empower victims as they navigate a criminal case.

"We are dealing with victims who are caught in a cycle, so they oftentimes make a report, then they get scared and don't want to go forward so there's a lot of good things in here that help us," said Courtney Baxter, Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 12th Judicial Circuit.

The ultimate goal is to help survivors get support and justice.

"Offenders should know that in this commonwealth these crimes will result in serious consequences," Coleman said. "Make no mistake. Let me be crystal clear we will pursue offenders in our commonwealth."

If you want help escaping an abusive relationship, call the Center for Women and Families 24/7 hotline at 844-237-2331. Their website also helps with information on prevention, education and navigating protective orders in the courts. Click here.

There are additional resources across the country. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence and needs assistance, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 800-799-SAFE or clicking here.

There is also a 24-hour Rape Crisis Line in Kentucky at 800-656-HOPE (4673) to connect with a sexual assault service provider near you or contact your local Kentucky State Police Post to connect with a victim advocate.

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