http://www.nnsvs.org.nz/news/domesticviolencemurdersreachalarmi.aspx
National Network of Stopping Violence
February 7 2007
Domestic violence murders reach alarming levels
Media Release
The number
of domestic violence murders in New Zealand has reached unprecedented levels
this year, causing shock and alarm among family violence experts.
Seven women
and one girl have been murdered since Christmas Day, most as a result of
domestic violence.
“This is
more than one murder a week. If this had
happened on the street or down at the mall the whole country would be in an
uproar,” Brian Gardner, national manager of the National Network of Stopping
Violence Services said.
Mr Gardner called on all New Zealanders to act if they notice anything which could
signal domestic violence. This will save
lives, he said.
“Emergency
services and family violence prevention workers cannot be in every home keeping
women and children safe. Ordinary New
Zealanders need to know what the warning signs are and speak up if they have
any concerns for the safety of their neighbours,
friends and family members.”
Warning
signs include:
·
appearing
frightened
·
socially
isolated
·
recently
separated
·
jealous
and possessive behaviour
·
physically
harmed such as bruised or having broken bones
·
anxiety,
extreme nervousness, insomnia
·
stress-related illnesses.
“We know
that following separation is the most dangerous time for women, most domestic
violence murders happen at this time.
“Don’t
dismiss people’s fears – of someone you know speaks of being frightened or
appears frightened, make a phone call, call police, call a family violence
prevention agency. You might save
someone’s life by getting professionals involved,” he said.
“If you
hear or see violence going on in your street or neighbourhood,
call the police. Domestic violence is
against the law.”
The victims:
·
Atonauga Seau found dead on Christmas Day
in Otara as a result of domestic violence
·
Shirley
Anne Keith found dead at her Kilbirnie home as a
result of domestic violence
·
Denise
Rosemarie Simeon found dead in her Waitara home as a
result of domestic violence
·
Doreen
Reed, Auckland pensioner (non-domestic)
·
Rowena
Kopara found dead in road layby
(not known if domestic violence related or not)
·
Misook Kim, murdered by ex-partner, West Auckland
·
55
year old woman found dead at her New Plymouth home as a result of domestic
violence
·
Charlene
Makaza, murdered and sexually assaulted, Christchurch,
a relative has been charged.