Counselors and police officers say the new plan is a step in the rightdirection.
Domestic Abuse Counselor Linda Hawkins has seen her share of abuse inNorth Carolina. She says the situation can be particularly dangerous whenthe victim is not married to the abuser.
Three amendments are now on the books that counselors say will meanmore protection for victims. The new amendments allow police to chargenearly anyone who abuses someone else, including family and couples whoare not married. Lt. Wayne Sears of the Rocky Mount Police Department saysthese new alternatives will help.
The rules may seem a little complicated at first, but investigators saythey're ready to put them to use. Judging by the rate of abuse in America,it shouldn't take long for the test to begin.
The average woman will try to leave an abuser seven or eight timesbefore finally making the break.
If you're in an abusive relationship, or know someone who is, there are people at area women's centers and shelters who can help.
If you are in imminent danger call police immediately. They can startset up restraining orders and help you obtain legal guidance.
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