Protecting victims of domestic violence from deadly force at home, at work, and in the community

Many already know that the issue of domestic violence, often referred to as ‘DV’, does not discriminate. DV can affect anyone. But did you know that an abuser’s access to firearms makes it five times more likely a woman who is a victim of DV will be killed by her partner? The data on firearms and deadly force with regard to domestic violence is alarming. That’s why Governor Cuomo’s recent proposal that anyone who commits a serious crime in another state be prevented from buying or possessing a gun in NY is newsworthy, especially to advocates for victims of intimate partner abuse. Keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous people saves lives, especially those of women who are in, or trying to flee from, dangerous relationships.

Domestic violence is a crime and is under-reported in many areas. These crimes are often charged as misdemeanors. Dangerous abusers who have been convicted of these crimes should not have access to a New York gun license simply because they committed them outside of the state of New York. Closing this loophole that allows those convicted of misdemeanors in other states to obtain gun licenses in New York will help keep victims of domestic violence safe.

As Unity House’s chief executive officer Chris Burke stated, “On behalf of the hundreds of victims of domestic violence served by our Domestic Violence Services program each year, we support this new policy proposal.” For more information on the issue domestic violence, please reach out to Unity House at (518) 274-2607 x4133. Unity House’s DV Services program helps victims of abuse and has counselors available 24 hours a day to provide crisis intervention, and information and referrals to victims and survivors as well as concerned friends or family members. The program offers myriad services including safety planning, safe shelter, legal services, counseling,  NYS crime victims assistance support, cell phones, referrals, advocacy, and housing. In addition, the program engages in community outreach, public awareness, training and education, and offers teen services. For help with, or resources for, your public awareness or training for your staff, club, organization, or group on the topic of domestic violence, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Help for victims of domestic violence is always available at Unity House’s 24 hour hotline: (518) 272-2370