By Nancy Allen

Block Captains and friends of public safety enjoyed a conversation with Judge Patrick Hillary recently. Judge Hillary is a 17th Circuit Court Judge currently serving in the Family Court division. He spoke with Creston’s neighbors on matters concerning domestic assault and juvenile crime. Domestic Assault is a commonly committed crime in the Creston Neighborhood.

Our duty as neighbors that are witnessing domestic violence is to be a friend and offer support. Turning the other cheek is not an option. In most cases the abused is female and the abuser is an outstanding member of society- a person that most would think would never abuse his family. This is why it is important to believe the person reaching out for help even thought what you have observed seems to point you to the opposite conclusion.

Many things happen behind closed doors. We must emphasize with the emotional stress and disappointment and react with compassion. Many times the abused will be in denial or be afraid to talk fearing repercussions. At the moment the abused is ready to leave, no time should be wasted in taking her out of the abusive situation.

Judge Hillary says that when the abused decides to leave, this is the most dangerous time. When the decision is made the abused should be put in a car and taken to a safe house immediately. There is not even time to pack a bag. In the wake of the one year anniversary of the shootings that happened in the Creston Neighborhood on July 7, 2011, we as outside witnesses of domestic violence must take a more active role making sure that those being victimized know that we are here to help.