Three back-to-back cases in Bennington highlight ongoing domestic assault struggles
Three back-to-back cases in Bennington highlight ongoing domestic assault struggles Bennington Banner
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Introduction
In this report, we will discuss the issue of domestic violence in Bennington County, Vermont. The cases of Megan Sherwood, Robert Ferris, and William Constantino will be examined, highlighting the prevalence of domestic abuse in the area. The report will also explore the factors contributing to domestic violence and the need for support services to address this issue. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in combating domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Cases in Bennington County
Megan Sherwood and Robert Ferris
Megan Sherwood and Robert Ferris were both arraigned on Wednesday afternoon. Sherwood was charged with misdemeanor domestic assault, while Ferris faced felony aggravated domestic assault charges. According to the police affidavit, Ferris allegedly punched Sherwood in the face, breaking her nose. Sherwood, who had a previous conviction in 2023, was prohibited from drinking alcohol but allegedly hit Ferris twice while under the influence.
William Constantino
A weight of evidence hearing was set for William Constantino, who also faced felony aggravated domestic assault charges. Constantino allegedly put the female victim in a chokehold until she lost consciousness. He was under an abuse prevention order at the time of the incident.
Prevalence of Domestic Violence in Vermont
Domestic violence with intimate partners increased by 21.5 percent in Vermont during 2022. In Bennington County alone, 385 relief from abuse orders (RFA’s) were filed in 2022, making it the third-highest county for such filings. Domestic violence accounted for 40 percent of all violent crime calls to Vermont law enforcement. The Attorney General’s 2023 Domestic Violence Fatality Review revealed that 45 percent of homicides in the state between 1994 and 2022 involved domestic violence.
Factors Contributing to Domestic Violence
Various risk factors contribute to domestic violence, including low self-esteem, low education levels, young age, substance abuse, economic stress, and a history of abuse in childhood. Relationship issues such as jealousy and possessiveness can also contribute to violence. Community factors, such as poverty, limited opportunities, low community involvement, and cultural norms supporting aggression, play a role as well. Witnessing domestic violence at a young age can perpetuate the cycle of violence.
Addressing Domestic Violence
To combat domestic violence, it is crucial to provide coordinated resources and services, quality education, stable housing, and economic support. Access to medical and mental health services is also essential. However, Bennington County faces challenges in accessing mental health support, substance abuse treatment, in-patient services, and other necessary programs. Prevention programs and opportunities for individuals to improve their circumstances are key in breaking the cycle of violence.
Initiatives by PAVE
PAVE (Project Against Violent Encounters) in Bennington is working on initiatives to address domestic violence. One program focuses on helping those causing harm to relearn new patterns of behavior. PAVE also provides supervised visitation programs for families impacted by domestic violence, allowing positive interactions between parents and children. Empowering survivors is another essential aspect of PAVE’s work, offering safe planning and shelter services. PAVE collaborates with law enforcement agencies through a direct referral process.
Legislation and Protection Orders
Legislation is being developed to expand protection orders and improve access to justice for victims of domestic violence. Currently, many individuals cannot obtain protection orders until the abuse reaches a certain level, which may be too late. Addressing issues such as serving protection orders and providing support in outlying towns are also important steps in combating domestic violence.
Conclusion
The prevalence of domestic violence in Bennington County highlights the urgent need for action. Achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), is crucial in addressing this issue. By providing support services, empowering survivors, and promoting prevention programs, we can work towards ending the cycle of violence and creating a safer community for all.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact the Bennington Police Department at 802-442-1030 or PAVE’s confidential hotline at 802-442-2111 or 802-228-7395. In an emergency, dial 911.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
- SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
- SDG 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Number of relief from abuse orders (RFA’s) filed
- Percentage increase or decrease in domestic violence with intimate partners
- Percentage of calls to law enforcement for violent crime related to domestic violence
- Percentage of homicides involving domestic violence
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation. | – Number of relief from abuse orders (RFA’s) filed – Percentage increase or decrease in domestic violence with intimate partners |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. | – Percentage of calls to law enforcement for violent crime related to domestic violence – Percentage of homicides involving domestic violence |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere. | – Number of relief from abuse orders (RFA’s) filed – Percentage increase or decrease in domestic violence with intimate partners – Percentage of calls to law enforcement for violent crime related to domestic violence – Percentage of homicides involving domestic violence |
Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.
Fuente: benningtonbanner.com
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