You don’t have to be married to become a victim of domestic violence, according to Deidra Bennett.
Bennett works for the Transformation Project, part of the Women’s Center that provides help to victims of domestic abuse at the University. Such violence occurs in dorms and on dates, though it might go by another name in court, she said.
“Domestic violence in a dating relationship would probably be called assault in court,” she said. “So we usually call it ‘relationship violence’ instead.”
Such abuse isn’t uncommon at the University. The center has recorded 36 abuse cases since it was founded in March 2001.
“Even in a small, safe city like Bowling Green, it’s happening,” she added.
That number includes more than just physical attacks. Victims – University students, faculty and staff -also report sexual, verbal and emotional abuse.
“A court sees violence as a slap, a punch, a push or a threat,” she said. “From an advocacy standpoint, we consider more.”
Indirect violence can do serious damage, according to Bennett.
“Most people have the conception that physical abuse is the most hurtful type,” she said. “But you really can’t put a hierarchy on it. Bruises can heal, but the mental damage is what really messes with the victim later on.”
Bennett is a victim advocate for the Transformation Project. Her job is to give victims options and advice. Bennett gives help regarding both the legal and personal aspects of the crime.
“The Transformation Project is a good starting place because they can get all their options explained, and I can support them emotionally through the whole process,” she said.
One decision a victim must make is whether to file a police report. Most victims never call the police, but sometimes making that call isn’t a good idea, according to Bennett.
“Sometimes calling police can put her more at risk,” she said. “Sometimes it can cause the situation (between a victim and an abuser) to escalate.”
However, the final decision on whether to make the call rests with the victim, Bennett added. “From my standpoint, she’s usually the best judge.”
For rape cases, Bennett calls the staff at the health center, who conduct searches for DNA evidence to convict the rapist. She also calls the Wood County Hospital when the victim is physically hurt. Injuries, however, are rare.
“The hospital has only gotten involved a few times,” she said.
Bennett and her coworkers also work closely with Behavioral Connections, which serves domestic violence victims throughout Wood County, and the Link, a 24-hour crisis hotline.
Bennett encourages people who think they might be in an abusive relationship to call her. “I’m available if someone wants to call and ask questions anonymously,” she said. “It’s all completely confidential.”
Abuse victims can call the Transformation Project at 419-372-2190. If no one answers, call the Link at 419-352-1545 or 1-800-472-9411.
