Domestic Abuse in Texas (and elsewhere)

Awful story in today's Fort Worth Star-Telegram about a domestic abuse case that ended with the husband murdering his wife, then killing himself, leaving their 4 year-old an orphan. The husband, Bill Medina, had been abusive to his wife, Jenny, for years. The husband did all the stereoptypical abuser behaviors, accused her of cheating on him, spied on her computer, monitored her email. Finally she had enough and left him and filed for divorce.

Go here to read the whole awful story, including listening to 911 calls.

Domestic Abuse does not just occur in low class, poorly educated, poor families. It can occur in what would seem to be a cliche All-American family. I know this all too well.

If you think you are in a domestic abuse situation and somehow do not know for sure, here is a list of the Signs to Look for.

1. Embarrasses you with bad names and put-downs.
2. Looks at you or acts in ways that scare you.
3. Controls what you do, whom you see or talk to, where you go.
4. Stops you from seeing or talking to friends and family.
5. Takes your money, makes you ask for money or refuses to give you money for your needs.
6. Makes all the decisions.
7. Tells you you're a bad parent or threatens to take away or hurt your children.
8. Acts like the abuse is no big deal, says it's your fault or denies doing it.
9. Destroys your property or threatens to kill your pets.
10. Intimidates you with guns, knives or other weapons.
11. Shoves, slaps or hits you.
12. Forces you to drop criminal charges if police have been called to a domestic dispute.
13. Threatens to commit suicide or to kill you.
14. Forces you to have sex.
15. Prevents you from working or attending school.

If you see yourself above, cry out for help, don't keep quiet, don't be afraid to tell people what is happening to you. GET HELP!