LIHU‘E — Domestic-violence-related calls are up about 15%, according to the Kaua‘i Police Department.
For the month of March, KPD reported 124 domestic-related calls. In March 2019, there were 108 such calls.
Of the calls last month, 36 were physical and 88 were considered verbal altercations. This is also up from numbers in February.
The county’s daily arrest report lists 19 “abuse family or household member” recorded last month.
Gina Kaulukukui, domestic violence interventions coordinator at KPD, assists and provides resources for domestic-violence victims in understanding resources, safety planning and acquiring temporary restraining orders.
“The most important thing is that we want to let victims know that we are there for them and that there is hope and they are not alone,” Kaulukukui said in a press release.
“It is important that victims have a safety plan in place. A good safety plan does not mean that the victim has to leave the relationship, which at the moment may not even be an option.”
This is in line with global trends. According to the United Nations, calls in Malaysia have doubled and in France are up 32%. Various other nations have also attributed an uptick to stay-at-home orders.
During Tuesday’s daily COVID-19 update, Mayor Derek Kawakami addressed the topic.
“During this stay-at-home order, we also understand that home can be one of the most dangerous places for victims of domestic violence, especially during an economic crisis,” Kawakami said. “All domestic-violence programs and shelters are running as usual.
“We also ask that our community please be the eyes and ears for their family, friends and neighbors,” said Kaulukukui. “If they suspect abuse, hear or see anything, please contact KPD right away. Sometimes a victim is not able to help themselves.”
Victims are directed to the YWCA’s crisis line at 245-6362 for 24-hour help.
One of the resources that she refers victims to is the YWCA Kaua‘i’s crisis line. The organization’s family-violence shelter also remains available for individuals and families who are not safe at home.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline has also created a step-by-step guide on what to look for, creating a safety plan and how to reach out for help. Victims can call at 800-799-7233 or text “LOVEIS” to 22522.
Child and Family Service can be reached at 245-5914. The crisis text line can be reached by texting “ALOHA” to 741-741.
Kaulukukui can be reached at 241-1695.
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Sabrina Bodon, public safety and government reporter, can be reached at 245-0441 or sbodon@thegardenisland.com.
