Domestic Violence Jump Thanks to Recession

According to a new report the struggling economy has lead to a spike in reported incidents of domestic violence in the Sunshine State.

By: WKRG Staff | WKRG-TV
Published: March 30, 2009

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - A new report says domestic violence
centers in Florida saw an almost 40-percent jump in demand last
fall, an increase that experts say is related to the worsening
economy.
Department of Children and Families Secretary George Sheldon
calls the situation "the worst I've seen in years."
The Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence says in its
report to the Legislature that when perpetrators are laid off, the
severity and frequency of violent assaults increase because the
perpetrators are home more often.
Experts say victims are also more likely to be trapped if family
and friends are cash-strapped and unable to provide refuge.
State leaders have promised that even amid expected budget cuts,
domestic violence funding will be protected.