Thank you for your coverage of this story. Our hearts go out to Mrs. Ellicott and to all those surviving domestic violence in our communities. While we are grateful that Mrs. Ellicott is able to testify about her abuse, it is devastating to think about how much she suffered before the perpetrator was held accountable for his actions.

This is just one of so many such stories. It is clear, the prevalence of domestic violence makes incidents like this a community problem, not a private matter.

As a community, we must work to keep victims safe and hold perpetrators accountable. What can we do?

First, we can listen to survivors and let them know that we believe them.

Second, we can offer resources like the statewide 1-800-33-HAVEN number, which can put survivors in touch with resources in their local area.

And finally, we can get involved and support our local domestic violence shelter and support agencies.

Here are just a few chilling facts to consider:

One in three women in America report being abused by a boyfriend or husband.

Firearms cause over half of the domestic violence-related fatalities every year in the U.S.

Georgia is ranked 14th in the nation for the rate at which men kill women, most of which are domestic violence deaths.

Thank you to The Citizen for providing coverage of this incident and trial. If you choose to do a follow-up story, please consider putting the 1-800-33-HAVEN number in the story as a resource for others who may be suffering abuse in your community.

Tonja Holder, director of development

Raksha, “serving survivors for over 13 years”

Atlanta, Ga.

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