Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Crimes Increasing

Shakesville's Melissa McEwan shares this disturbing news today:

A new government report showing huge increases in the incidences of domestic violence, rape, and sexual assault over a two-year period in the United States deserves immediate attention from lawmakers and the incoming administration, Human Rights Watch said today. The statistics show a 42-percent increase in reported domestic violence and a 25-percent increase in the reported incidence of rape and sexual assault.

The National Crime Victimization Survey, based on projections from a national sample survey, says that at least 248,300 individuals were raped or sexually assaulted in 2007, up from 190,600 in 2005, the last year the survey was conducted. The study surveyed 73,600 individuals in 41,500 households. Among all violent crimes, domestic violence, rape, and sexual assault showed the largest increases.

Yikes. This is scary. And even more frightening, as Melissa notes - "Only violent crimes against women by intimate partners increased. This shit doesn't happen in a void. There is a reason violent crimes against women are increasing."

In addition to this information, I am reminded of the increase in violent crime that has been going on in Washington, DC lately - the place I call home. I've been watching the crime stats rise in my area and decided that I'd like to get a permit to carry pepper spray. Unfortunately, there are very few instructions about how to get pepper spray from the Metropolitan Police Department, but plenty of instructions about how to get a permit for a handgun. Ironic, no? I'll keep you updated on those efforts.

Still, it is important to realize that in a struggling economy, violence is likely to get worse not better. Now is the time to take those self-defense classes and donate or volunteer with programs that help victims of rape and domestic violence - especially in light of this recent report.