Domestic violence cases spike in Osceola

While Osceola County has seen a rise of domestic violence investigations in the last few months, victim advocates have seen another difference this year: A major spike in extremely violent cases.

"The increase that we have really seen that has been alarming to us has been the amount of people who have come to us feeling compelled, and absolutely an urgency in that situation, that they are going to be killed," said Tammy Douglas, with Help Now of Osceola.

Since May, the domestic violence advocacy center has seen a major boost in violent cases, helping 638 people.

"More recently, people with really physical evidence of terrible physical abuse," Douglas said.

Law enforcement throughout Osceola County has seen a similar spike, with just over 60 more domestic violence cases than this time last year.

Domestic Violence Cases: May 1–July 15

While no one had an answer to explain the sudden increase, advocates at Help Now said abuse is a constant struggle throughout the year, and at least one in four women are victims of domestic violence.

"Domestic violence is a societal problem that impacts a person in one way shape or form," said Douglas.

This year, Help Now discovered domestic violence cases, the investigations, the arrests, child protection and medical costs all cost Osceola County about $3 million every year. That's why Douglas said it's time for everyone to get involved to stop the spike.

"If you see someone in the process of being abused, pick up the phone and call 911," Douglas said.

You can also call Help Now's 24-hour abuse hotline at (407) 847-8562.