The holidays bring out the best and sometimes the worst of people. Although merriment is at a high point, so are emotions and stress. Because of this, domestic violence cases often rise this time of year.
According to an article recently published by WALB out of Albany, another reason for the rise is that victims don’t want to leave the abusive relationship over the holidays. No matter what the circumstances are, people want to be with their family through the winter months.
As of December 7th, Albany Police had received 25 calls for domestic incidences. Executive Director of the Liberty House battered women’s shelter, Silke Deeley is quoted as saying “even in the worst case scenarios, people want to be with their families.”
Whether or not a victim of domestic violence wants help, once the police are called they may not have a say in the matter. If the police come upon a domestic assault, they will likely arrest who they believe the aggressor is and a protection order may be issued.
The stressed economy and unemployment numbers is also said to be having an effect on the domestic violence numbers. Unemployment wasn’t an issue in a case out of Guyton, however.
A newly elected alderman who has yet to take his oath, Michael Bernard Johnson, was recently arrested and charged with simple battery, two counts of simple assault, and criminal trespass. Johnson was found to be in a rage on Christmas afternoon where he was throwing his wife’s and children’s possessions out of the house.
Authorities state that Johnson was seen with a loaded semi-automatic pistol according to the Savannah Morning News. Once in the home, police found several pieces of property damaged and the Christmas tree knocked over.
More than likely Johnson will get little sympathy in the court system. Many people view domestic assaults with a particular disdain and the fact that this incident was said to have been triggered by his son’s inability to tie his shoes likely won’t help the matter.
When facing charges of a domestic nature, it is hard to find someone in your corner. Your family relationships and even your friends may turn their back on you. This is when a committed defense attorney can be an invaluable asset.
Contact me today to discuss the charges against you and to see how I might be able to help.