PORTLAND -- Oregon domestic violence statistics show a tragic trend. In 2009, 27 victims lost their lives, including four children. In 2010, 47 victims were killed, five children among them. The trend shows no sign of slowing.
Last Friday, police said a 48-year-old man shot his 21-year-old girlfriend, then turned the gun on himself. A week earlier in Keizer, police say Peter Zielinski killed his wife Lisa because he thought she was having an affair.
"The challenge of domestic violence is growing right now in Oregon and I think it has a lot to do with the challenges in the economy," said U.S. Attorney Dwight Holton. He held a special meeting Friday with law enforcement officials, prosecutors and victim's advocates. He said federal firearms statutes can make a difference if everyone knows how they work.
"If you have someone with a restraining order or previous conviction hanging around a partner with a gun, that person is committing a federal crime and we can put them in jail for a long time," said Holton.
Guns are involved in about 60 percent of all domestic violence killings in Oregon. Domestic violence experts have been reviewing some of the most recent deaths.
"We've learned it's important that victims not tell their perpetrators they are leaving, because very often across the board, that has been the moment the perpetrator does the homicide," said Chiquita Rollins, who coordinates domestic violence programs for Multnomah County.
Crisis hot lines and safe shelters can save lives, but with so many funding challenges, domestic violence experts said the best shot at slowing down deaths right now is up to citizens. They said it's time to stop looking the other way and take an active role in stopping the violence.
"If you see bruises and you are concerned about somebody, tell them you are concerned and ask if something is going on and if there's anything you can do to help," said Rollins.
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