October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and in recognition of this special month, The Women’s Crisis Center of Taney County is hosting a Domestic Violence Awareness Candlelight Vigil on Monday, October 2, 2017. The annual event will be held at the Community Presbyterian Church, in Forsyth, Missouri, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

According to a study released in December of 2015 by the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 4 women have been violently attacked by their intimate partners. Unfortunately, domestic violence is still more common and less reported than physical violence from strangers, with studies estimating that only about 1 in 4 domestic assaults are ever reported.

Domestic violence is not just a global problem but also a Taney County problem. So far this year, the Taney County Prosecutor’s Office has received 179 domestic assault referrals. In 2016, the Prosecutor’s Office received 83 domestic assault referrals from law enforcement officers. In 2015, 61 domestic assault referrals were received.

“Hopefully giving recognition to Domestic Violence Awareness Month will let those who may be suffering in a domestic violence situation know there are people here – in our community – who want to help,” said Taney County Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Merrell.