COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus police have issued nearly 500 domestic violence-related charges so far this year. City Attorney Zach Klein says those are just the cases they know of.
In the last two months, there have been five murder-suicides that were all domestic violence-related. Klein says that is a stark reminder of why it's important to come forward.
“Prosecutors don't know because it's happening within the four corners of their house or in their apartment that we have to be vigilant and stand up for our loved ones, our neighbors, our friends. If you know something that's going on and take the time in a month, like October, to recognize that, I think is so important to spread that message that if you really see something, say something because you could save a life,” Klein said.
Klein said his office prosecutes about 6,000 domestic violence cases a year.
“Too many, but those are the ones where people are identified and arrested. And there are so many cases that go unreported where only family members or friends know exactly what's going on in a particular situation,” Klein said.
There have been 19 domestic violence homicides in the city so far this year. There were 25 in all of last year and seven the year before.
In an attempt to curb the increase in domestic violence homicides, last year Klein made a push for those violent domestic violence offenders to receive a $500,000 bond for offenses involving a gun or significant injury.
“It is the most important thing that we prosecute,” Klein said.
Klein explains of the 6,000 cases, 300 to 400 would qualify for the high bond. Of those, Klein said judges have granted the $500,000 bond just seven times.
“We're going to continue to request it because we think it's really important for us not only to send a message that we take it seriously but secondly, is to get those perpetrators and abusers out of the situation and put them in jail if need be during the time before trial because the injuries and the chance of lethality for the victim and the family members is so high,” he said.
Klein said his office will continue to push for protection for the victims and high bonds for the perpetrators.
“I have an obligation and a duty and my moral compass will tell me to always ask for this and those very significant cases. We will continue to push, we'll continue to make the case to the court. I have a pledge to those who are survivors of domestic violence and to their families and to those who are currently experiencing domestic violence that I will do everything in my prosecutorial power to keep them safe. And you know, all we can do is ask the judge, we will continue to ask the judge for the $500,000 bonds in those most dangerous cases,” Klein said.
If you or someone you know needs help to get out of an abusive situation call the free National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or LSS CHOICES 24/7 hotline at 614-224-4663.