Today we continue our series of interviews on the issue of domestic violence.
As the Director of External and Internal Affairs for the Coalition against Domestic Violence, Leisa Wiseman works with 42 certified domestic violence centers across the state providing technical and educational assistance. Most importantly, the coalition provides a statewide hotline service for victims of domestic violence. Florida's 89.1, WUFT-FM's Donna Green-Townsend talked with Wiseman about the issue.
WUFT: It's one thing to have laws, another to make sure they're enforced. I know, for a long time, law enforcement found it difficult to put themselves in situations where husbands and wives are fighting. Many officers get hurt in those situations.
Wiseman: Tragically, you do see that happen. I will tell you, though, law enforcement is an incredible partner with us as we try to eliminate domestic violence.
WUFT: Where do you think there's room for improvement across the state?
Wiseman: There's always room for improvement. One thing that we know is that when attempting to flee a violent situation or when making some move to end a relationship... that is the most dangerous time. We know that. That's why we encourage primarily women but men as well to call the hotline. You can reach a domestic violence advocate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is a multilingual hotline. Obviously, if you are in a crisis situation, 911 is key, but this is an opportunity where you can talk to an advocate and really walk through safety planning so that if there's a call, they can talk someone through what's going on—how to keep themselves and their children safe.
Victims of domestic violence can call the toll free number at 1-800-500-1119.
Hear the full interview above.