January 12, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Alyssa Dandrea (802) 451-8491, alyssa@nhcadsv.org
 
Today, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office released a statement regarding the appointment of retired Alexandria Police Chief Donald Sullivan as the new Independent Compliance Overseer for St. Paul’s School.
 
“As a veteran law enforcement officer, Chief Sullivan has a demonstrated history of serving crime victims in New Hampshire and understands the importance of working from a trauma-informed and victim-centered perspective,” said Alyssa Dandrea, Community Relations Specialist at the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. “He recognizes that multidisciplinary strategy is essential when responding to cases of sexual and domestic violence, and he will bring that collaborative approach to his work as overseer.”
 
Dandrea continued, “We believe the Chief is an exemplary leader who will help affect the long-term change that is so overdue at St. Paul’s School.”
 
 
About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.
 

December 4, 2020
For immediate release 
Contact: Alyssa Dandrea, alyssa@nhcadsv.org

The Coalition, announced that it has received a $10,000 grant from Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation (EBCF). The grant is part of a commitment from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation to provide financial support to local organizations focused on COVID-19 relief.

EBCF is providing a total of $8 million in COVID-19 philanthropic support in the communities it serves.
 
The Coalition is receiving a grant for its work in assisting victims of domestic violence, as the very restrictions imposed to keep people home and safe from the virus create opportunities for sexual abuse, verbal abuse, and physical violence, particularly for women and the LGBTQ+ community.

“Evidence of the impact of this virus outbreak on our neighbors, families, and small businesses is everywhere,” said Nancy Huntington Stager, President and CEO of Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation. “And, we also see the resiliency, sheer will, and hope of people across our region as they band together to help one another. The need for assistance continues to grow, and we will do what we can to give back and support the most vulnerable populations in our communities as well as encourage those who are able to do so to join us.”

If you or a loved one have experienced abuse or sexual assault you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org.  

CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES 
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 
1-866-644-3574 
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 
1-800-277-5570 
​Text and chat services are also available. Visit www.nhcadsv.org for more information. 
 
About the Coalition: 
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org. 

October 19, 2020 
For immediate release 
Contact: Alyssa Dandrea, alyssa@nhcadsv.org, (802) 451-8491 
  
Early today, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office released a statement regarding the immediate resignation of Jeffrey Maher, the Independent Compliance Overseer for St. Paul’s School since early 2019. His role was established in a 2018 Settlement Agreement that called for government oversight of St. Paul’s School for a period of up to five years, and Mr. Maher was tasked with ensuring that the school remained compliant with the agreement and relevant New Hampshire’s laws, including the law related to mandatory reporting of child abuse. His resignation demonstrates the persistent challenges faced in holding St. Paul’s accountable and ensuring effective oversight and transparency. 
 
It appears that St. Paul’s believes it is above the law and does not have to comply with the terms of the settlement. 
 
“St. Paul’s School does not seem capable of creating a cultural shift on campus that prioritizes the health and safety of students entrusted to its care,” said Lyn Schollett, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. “The school continues to prioritize it’s status over the well-being of its students. Leadership at St. Paul’s School had an opportunity to make significant change, but instead treated their agreement with the Department of Justice with resistance and hostility. Students have continued to disclose that they have felt bullied and silenced by the school, the same conduct that Mr. Maher reports in his resignation letter has been inflicted upon him. The news of Mr. Maher’s resignation represents a betrayal to past and current students who believed in good faith that the school had its best interests at heart.” 
 
Schollett continued, “Mr. Maher has long demonstrated a deep commitment to the rights of victims and the importance of ensuring a safe campus for all students. The absence of his expertise at St. Paul’s will be felt deeply throughout the Concord community.” 
 
If you or a loved one have experienced abuse or sexual assault you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org.  
 
CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES 
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 
1-866-644-3574 
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 
1-800-277-5570 
​Text and chat services are also available. Visit www.nhcadsv.org for more information. 
 
About the Coalition: 
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org. 
​ 

​“The bills included in the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence demonstrate the ongoing pervasiveness of sexual violence in the United States, and the urgent need to adopt legislation that strengthens protections for survivors, while simultaneously continuing efforts to prevent violence in our communities,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. “The barriers that have impacted survivors of sexual violence from accessing the resources and services needed to heal, as well as challenges to accessing justice existed prior to the emergence of a global pandemic in our country. As we continue to respond to the Coronavirus, and in the wake of economic insecurity, it is more vital than ever to increase access to services, expand protections across all industries and institutions, and introduce strategies to interrupt violence at its root.”

July 20, 2020
For immediate release
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, amanda@nhcadsv.org, (603) 548-9377
 
Today marks a pivotal moment for victims and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in the Granite State. HB1645, HB1240, and HB705, three comprehensive omnibus bills, have been officially signed into law by Governor Sununu in what has been an unprecedented and remarkable year for survivor-centered, and trauma-informed legislation. The passage of these bills is of particular importance as the state strives to respond to the Coronavirus Pandemic, which has profoundly impacted the experiences of survivors throughout New Hampshire.
 
“We are thrilled to see the passage of these bills into law and are grateful for the leadership of Governor Sununu as well as for the work of NH state legislators, survivors, and allies who saw this legislation through to the finish line during this truly unpredictable session.” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the Coalition. “This legislation could not be timelier. Expanding vital protections, services, and support, especially amidst this global pandemic, will improve the lives of survivors, who are under incredible pressure and danger due to the fallout of COVID-19.
 
Through HB705, survivors of sexual assault and incest will no longer be restricted to arbitrary timeframes when it comes to seeking justice and bringing forth a civil claim, as the bill eliminates the civil statute of limitations. The bill also updates New Hampshire’s sexual assault statute by making illegal for a spouse to sexually assault their partner and ensures that all individuals are protected against sexual violence under the law.
The legislation also updates the statutory Victim Bill of Rights for the first time since 2010, which will now provide statutory rights to the victims of a misdemeanor sexual assault, increase the total recovery amount a survivor can receive under the Victims’ Compensation Fund, and establish a committee to study the needs of crime victims. 
​
Additionally, the bill bans the sale of so called “Do-It-Yourself” rape test kits, preventing companies from selling misleading products to survivors, and protecting their right to free medical care after an assault, as well as free evidence collection should they choose. This aligns with the best practices established by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners and the protocols established by the Department of Justice to ensure that survivors of sexual assault receive a certain standard of care and have access to critical services and support networks.
 
Lastly, the bill will establish laws to address sexual assault on college campuses that are aimed at strengthening support and resources for survivors, including offering confidential advising services; preventing victims from being punished for reporting a case of sexual violence; collecting accurate data about sexual violence prevalence on college campuses; and increasing evidence-based training on prevention and response for students and staff.
 
The passage of HB1645 will help prevent and deter domestic violence by extending the waiting period for violent offenders to petition for annulment of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense. This will ensure that convicted perpetrators are not allowed to quickly erase their criminal histories, as those histories are indicative of a pattern of abuse and can show the lethality risk for victims, their children, and the public at large.
 
Finally, HB1240 closes the so-called “Howie Leung” loophole, preventing any adults in position of authority from abusing the youth in their care. This bill also creates an additional revenue stream for the Domestic Violence Prevention Program, helping crisis centers provide critical, life-saving care across New Hampshire. 

If you or a loved one have experienced abuse or sexual assault you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org. 

CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-866-644-3574
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline:
1-800-277-5570
​Text and chat services are also available. Visit www.nhcadsv.org for more information.

About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.
​

​

June 30, 2020
For immediate release
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, amanda@nhcadsv.org, (603) 548-9377
 
A number of bills that will improve the lives of survivors of domestic and sexual violence have passed through both the New Hampshire Senate and the House of Representatives. The Coalition is thankful for the efforts of the NH Legislature to pass critical legislation that prioritizes the needs of survivors, especially in light of the devastating effects that COVID-19 is having on victims of abuse across the state. The following bills will now head to Governor Sununu’s desk.
 
HB 705: An omnibus bill with multiple provisions relative to sexual assault, sexual misconduct in institutions of higher education, and the rights of victims of crime.
HB 1645: An omnibus bill which includes a provision that would amend the waiting period for violent offenders to petition for annulment of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense.
HB1558: An omnibus bill with a provision relative to child sexual abuse prevention education and training.
HB1240: An omnibus bill that closes the so-called “Howie Leung loophole by ensuring that any adult in a position of authority in the state of NH is legally prohibited from violating New Hampshire’s youth. This bill would also create a stable funding source for domestic violence prevention and intervention efforts.  
 
“These bills are a remarkable victory for survivors and for everyone concerned about the safety of citizens in this state,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the Coalition. “These new protections will ensure that New Hampshire remains a leader in sexual assault prevention and in our response to domestic violence and abuse. We are so grateful to the incredible amount of advocacy from survivors and allies who reached out to their legislators and made their voices heard during this session.”
 
HB 705 relative to sexual assault, sexual misconduct in institutions of higher education, and the rights of victims of crime. HB 705:

• Updates the statutory rights of crime victims in New Hampshire. It provides statutory rights to the victims of a misdemeanor sexual assault, and establishes a committee to study the needs of crime victims. 

• Removes exceptions that allows married couples to sexually assault their spouse. Under the current statute, minors and individuals with disabilities who are married do not have the same protections under the law as someone who is single or in a dating relationship. Marriage should not give anyone an excuse to sexually assault their partner.

• Prohibits the sale of so called "Do It Yourself" rape test kits in New Hampshire. DIY rape test kits are misleading and do not protect the health or rights of survivors of assault. Prohibiting these kits ensures that New Hampshire remains aligned with the best practices in the field. Victims of sexual assault in New Hampshire have the ability to seek professional medical attention and accurate evidence collection free of charge. It is unconscionable that companies are taking advantage of this national emergency to create barriers to critical medical care by promoting incorrect, misleading, and potentially harmful information. New Hampshire victims of crime shouldn't be harmed by misleading marketing tactics that only benefit for-profit corporations.

• Eliminates civil statutes of limitations in sexual assault cases. Current law states that survivors of child sexual assault have until the age of 30 to bring forth a civil claim, while adult survivors of sexual abuse only have three years. The passage of HB705 would repeal these arbitrary civil timelines, ensuring those that are abused have the right to try to prove they were harmed by the act of an abuser at any point in time.

• Creates laws to address sexual assaults on campus.  1 in 5 college students is a victim of sexual violence, and this bill strengthens support and resources for survivors of campus-based sexual assault by offering confidential advising services to victims; preventing victims from being punished for reporting a case of sexual violence; collecting accurate data about sexual violence prevalence on college campuses; and increasing evidence-based training on prevention and response for students and staff.

 ​
HB1645, relative to superior court judgments; adding a bail commissioner to the commission on pretrial detention, pretrial scheduling, and pretrial services and the release of a defendant pending trial; prison privatization; misdemeanor domestic violence offenses; immunity from arrest or prosecution for certain alcoholic beverage violations; police officers reporting misconduct; criminal mischief; screening for all law enforcement officers for psychological stability prior to assuming their duties as certified officers; and prohibiting the use of chokeholds by law enforcement officers.

• This bill includes a provision that would extend the waiting period for violent offenders to petition for annulment of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense. Current law allows annulment after just 3 years, and this bill extends the waiting period to 10 years.  It is important that New Hampshire stops allowing convicted perpetrators to quickly erase their criminal histories, as those histories are indicative of a pattern of abuse and enhanced lethality risk for victims, their children, and the public at large. Domestic violence already accounts for 53% of homicides and 80% of the murder-suicides in our state. Victims of abuse cannot simply erase the impact of these crimes that were perpetrated against them.

HB1558, relative to discipline of students, addressing students' behavioral needs, and making an appropriation therefor; kindergarten funding; violence in schools; policies for students with head injuries; child sexual abuse prevention education and training; authorizing the issuance of bonds or notes by a municipality; adding the chancellor of the university system of New Hampshire to the department of business and economic affairs council of partner agencies; change of school or assignment due to manifest educational hardship; school board expenditure of year-end fund balances; a children's system of care; student wellness; and criminal background checks for bus drivers.

• This bill would increase a school’s ability to respond to child sexual abuse through providing informational materials, training, and other education that would increase school employees’ understanding and awareness of child sexual abuse, and ensure that schools and their employees are more equipped to identify abuse, and work to prevent it before it even happens.

HB1240, relative to the grounds for sexual assault and related offenses, establishing a special marriage officiant license, modifying requirements for renewal of pharmacy licenses, and relative to occupational licensure and the office of professional licensure and certification 

• The passage of HB1240 closes loopholes within New Hampshire’s sexual assault laws. This comprehensive legislation ensures that any adult in a position of authority in the state of New Hampshire, including teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, volunteer chaperones and contractual bus drivers are prohibited from having sexual contact with the youth charged with their care. 
• This bill also ensures that all students in a primary or secondary educational setting are protected, even if they have turned 18, which is especially important for students with disabilities who may be in school longer.
• This bill removes an outdated notion that a prosecutor must prove coercion to show that an adult in a position of authority sexually abused a child. The abuse of a position of authority is inherently coercive. Most adults who sexually abuse children don’t use physical threats or coercion, but rather use shame and emotional pressure to both abuse and silence minors. Howie Leung didn’t use the element of coercion. Instead, he groomed students and campers by giving them extra attention, flattery, special privileges, and gifts.
• This bill also creates a Special Marriage Officiant License. The majority of the fee for this license, estimated to be $80,000, would be deposited into the Domestic Violence Prevention Program and would be a guaranteed source of income for the 13 Crisis Centers across the state. This additional funding stream would help ensure that all victims in New Hampshire receive critical, life-saving services when they need it, and would help prevent victims from being turned away from services due to lack of capacity.

If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or abuse you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org. 

CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-866-644-3574
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline:
1-800-277-5570
​
About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.

April 25, 2020
For immediate release

Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, amanda@nhcadsv.org, (603) 548-9377
 
The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence thanks the Federal Delegation for their joint efforts to end the early release of violent offenders due to COVID-19

We would like to express gratitude to our Federal Delegation for their ongoing support for victims of domestic and sexual violence, and for their recent statement opposing the early release of violent offenders from New Hampshire’s correctional facilities*. We support the delegation’s call for courts and corrections officials to issue guidance that convicted violent offenders should not be given early release because they pose a severe threat to their victims and to the general public. 

Throughout the nation, the call for the early release of offenders has taken hold as a humane way to protect prisoners from contracting COVID-19. ​Despite a narrative that only non-violent offenders would be released, the Coalition has seen incidents of criminals with violent histories freed who have already reoffended.

On April 3, 2020, Terrance Perkins was granted an early release from the Carroll County House of Corrections due to concerns over his health and possible increased risk of contracting COVID-19. In 2016, Mr. Perkins was convicted and sentenced for two felony charges after using a gun to threaten a child and a person known to him in Tamworth. His history of violence also allegedly includes an assault of a female corrections officer while in custody. Perkins has been trying to reobtain the firearms that were taken after his arrest, seeking to get them back prior to his early release hearing.

The circumstances of this case serve as enormous red flags for potential future violence and were ultimately disregarded.

The coronavirus has already shown to have an impact on violent behavior across the globe. This pandemic does not serve as a factor for diminishing violence but creates unprecedented opportunities for abusers to reoffend. The early release of violent offenders not only serves to burden an already stressed law enforcement system at a time when all resources are needed, but it creates an enormous amount of fear and anxiety for victims. 

“Victims across the state are frightened that their abuser is going to be released. No victim should ever have to flee their home during this pandemic because the person who abused them has been given greater consideration for their safety than those they have harmed,” said Pamela Keilig, Public Policy Specialist for the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. 

The Coalition hopes that those working in the criminal justice system reconsider the early release of violent offenders. These actions are creating even more public safety concerns in the midst of a pandemic.

*READ THE NH DELEGATION'S FULL STATEMENT:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2020
CONTACT: 202-224-8028
 
NH Delegation Urges Courts & State Officials to Issue Guidance Prohibiting Release of Violent Offenders Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
 
**NH DELEGATION: “The last thing that a survivor of domestic or sexual violence should face during this difficult time is further abuse from an abuser who was released early from prison or jail.”**
 
(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) – the lead Democrat of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds Violence Against Women Act programs – and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) issued the following statement regarding the release of offenders convicted of domestic violence and sex offenses amid the coronavirus pandemic, and urged courts and officials in New Hampshire to issue guidance prohibiting their release. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, New Hampshire correctional facilities have released inmates in an effort to stop the spread of the disease. The delegation’s statement comes as concerns were raised with the release of an inmate in Carroll Country who was a violent offender.
 
“The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the risk of domestic violence and placed enormous strain on survivors attempting to access the services they need to safely escape from abusive environments and to heal. As more individuals are forced to remain in their homes and movement is broadly restricted, the rate of domestic violence will continue to grow and survivors will be placed in increasingly vulnerable positions. Domestic violence hotlines are seeing a surge in calls for help.
 
“The last thing that a survivor of domestic or sexual violence should face during this difficult time is further abuse from an abuser who was released early from prison or jail. Not only does this harm the survivor, it also presents a threat to the communities into which these violent offenders are released. States and the federal government should be doing everything possible to ensure that the inmate population are protected from COVID-19 outbreaks, but protecting our communities and victims of these violent crimes must be the priority.
 
“Courts and corrections officials in New Hampshire and all other states must make it clear that convicted violent criminals and sex offenders, who pose a threat to survivors and the community at large, should not be released. We will continue pushing for resources at the federal level to ensure that inmates are safe, while fighting to protect the survivors of violent crimes.
 
“Survivors in New Hampshire can speak with an advocate by calling the 24/7 domestic violence hotline at 1-866-644-3574 or the 24/7 sexual assault hotline at 1-800-277-5570. You are not alone.”  
###
Sarah Q. Weinstein
Deputy Communications Director
Senator Jeanne Shaheen
202-224-5553

April 9, 2020
For immediate release
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, (603) 548-9377
 
New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence statement on the release of violent offenders due to COVID-19

The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence represents a statewide network of 13 member programs that serve survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. We would like to express our deep concerns over the early release of violent offenders from jails and prisons due to COVID-19.

Across the United States, and sadly now in New Hampshire, flawed policies have begun to prioritize rights of criminal offenders over justice and the rights of survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The policies are not only misguided but will lead to increased violence and fear in our communities.

Throughout the nation, calls to release violent offenders have taken hold as a humane way to protect “vulnerable” prisoners from contracting the coronavirus. Despite a narrative that only non-violent offenders would be released, the Coalition has seen an alarming number of criminals with violent histories freed who have already reoffended. Many who are incarcerated have underlying mental health and substance abuse issues and currently have no stable supports or housing options. Outside of jails or prisons, many of these offenders do not have access to treatment options which are fundamental to their recovery. Without these supports their likelihood of successful re-entry into society is greatly diminished. 

This disturbing trend not only serves to burden an already stressed law enforcement system at a time when all resources are needed, it creates an enormous amount of fear and anxiety for victims.

On April 3, 2020, Terrance Perkins was granted an early release from the Carroll County House of Corrections early due to concerns over his health and possible increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Mr. Perkins was convicted and sentenced for two felony charges related to using a gun to threaten a person known to him and a child in Tamworth in 2016.

Mr. Perkins not only has a history of violence, he also allegedly assaulted a female corrections officer while in custody and has been trying to reobtain his guns which were taken after his arrest, seeking to have them returned to him even prior to his early release hearing. These three facts in this case serve as enormous red flags for potential future violence and were completely disregarded.

Toward the end of the  hearing to consider early release, Judge Amy Ignatius agreed with jail superintendent Jason Henry, who said he could not ensure Perkins' safety from the virus while in custody. "This isn't about sympathy to Mr. Perkins," said Ignatius. "This isn't about feeling he should get special treatment. It has to do with the overall facility and the management of that facility in a way that's safe for everyone." 

When a judge considers what is "…safe for everyone" that decision must consider the rights and safety of victims of abuse. The rights of violent prisoners to be safe should never supersede the rights of their victims. In a state where over 50% of homicides are domestic violence related, much greater care and consideration must be taken before making decisions that could threaten the lives and safety of women and children.

"We have the research and the data models to know that individuals that commit acts of domestic violence with a deadly weapon pose a high risk, and that is exactly what Mr. Perkins was convicted of and was sentenced for,” stated Tiffany Roberts, the Family Violence Prevention Specialist for Starting Point, the Coalition member program serving Carroll County.
​
As COVID-19 continues to spread across the Granite State, staying at home remains the safest option to avoid exposure for most, yet, this movement to release prisoners overlooks the right of survivors to feel safe in their own home. Coronavirus has already shown to have an impact on violent behavior across the globe. This pandemic does not serve as a factor for diminishing violence but creates unprecedented opportunities for abusers to reoffend.

“Victims across the state are scared that their abuser is going to be released and they are frantically working to create safety plans,” said Pamela Keilig, Public Policy Specialist for the Coalition.  “Survivors of abuse should not be forced into a situation where they must live on the run because of the actions of the criminal justice system.”

The Coalition hopes that those working in the criminal justice system reconsider this misguided and reactive process of the early release of violent offenders.  These actions are creating even more public safety concerns in the midst of a pandemic. 
​
If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or abuse you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit www.nhcadsv.org.
 

CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-866-644-3574
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline:
1-800-277-5570
​
About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.
​

 April 1, 2020
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton (603) 548-9377
 
The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is grateful to Governor Sununu for authorizing the Emergency Protections and Relief Funds for Domestic and Sexual Violence Organizations.
 
“This critical relief recognizes the severe impact that the COVID-19 crisis has on survivors of domestic and sexual violence in New Hampshire. Domestic violence victims are under intense pressure at this time due to stay at home requirements, severe isolation, and the financial impact of this pandemic. Through this potentially life-saving Executive Order, survivors will be safer from violence and abuse,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
 
This order provides emergency funds to help shelter victims, support their immediate needs, and provide critical funding to maintain crisis centers’ operations in order to stay open and meet the needs of victims.
 
On behalf of the Coalition’s 13 member programs, we thank Governor Sununu for this swift and bold action. Through this order, New Hampshire can continue to support the needs of survivors of abuse during this unprecedented time.
 
If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or abuse you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org. 

CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-866-644-3574
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline:
1-800-277-5570
​
About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.
 
​

March 30, 2020
Contact: Amanda Grady Sexton, (603) 548-9377

The news and ever-changing circumstances of the coronavirus crisis is distressing, especially for those who may not be safe in their own home. As families remain in isolation with increased stressors such as school closures and financial insecurity, the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence expects to see the incidents of domestic violence and child abuse increase.

“We know from what we have already seen across the globe, it’s not a matter of if domestic violence will increase during this crisis, but by how much it will increase. Will we see a rise of 30% or will we see incidents completely skyrocket as they did in Wuhan during the quarantines? It’s alarming to know that so many survivors, who would ordinarily have the time and space away from their abuser to make a call and set up a safety plan, no longer have the opportunity to do that. There’s no reprieve, their every moment is being watched,” said Pamela Keilig, Public Policy Specialist of the Coalition. “The rates globally are accelerating at an enormous pace, but they reflect only the victims who can reach out or where we see police intervention. Sadly, what we are seeing across the world, is probably just the tip of the iceberg.”

Though quarantining is keeping families safer from the COVID-19 virus, it is an incredibly stressful time for even the healthiest of families. In families where the dynamics of coercion and abuse already exist the danger of violence is greatly elevated. “Many abusers have lost jobs, are increasing substance use, and are suddenly having to care for children around the clock. These experiences are never an excuse for domestic violence or sexual abuse, but it is a volatile mixture,” said Pamela Keilig.

It is well known that abusers use emotional and physical abuse to isolate and manipulate victims. The shelter-in-place order during the coronavirus crisis gives them a built-in excuse to further isolate their partners and establish control. We are seeing more and more stories each day about domestic violence that may be quarantine related. 

Additionally, the continued call for the release of prisoners to protect them from coronavirus adds another layer of anxiety for victims who are worried that their abuser or perpetrator may be released early, and without warning. It is vital that the impact on crime victims be a priority as decisions are being made during these unprecedented times.

Despite the closures of so many businesses, advocates at the 13 member programs of the Coalition are still available 24/7 to help survivors get the support and resources they need to keep themselves and their children safe. Courts are still open for restraining orders and other emergencies. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, who are trained through the Coalition’s SANE Program are still ready to help survivors who may have been sexually abused. Though in-person advocacy at New Hampshire’s crisis centers, for the most part, has been temporarily reduced and may look different,  the networks that exist to support and keep survivors safe are still in place.

Many people have asked what they can do to help survivors and crisis centers at this time. One of the major issues the Coalition's member programs are facing is the cancellation of all major spring fundraisers that they rely on for funding. If people can make donations at this time to their local crisis center, that support is truly needed right now.

"As this situation continues, and after the quarantine is over, there will be a lot of work for advocates to do to help the survivors and their children who have experienced or witnessed abuse,” said Pamela Keilig. “Our member programs will be ready, but they will need support from their communities.”

If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or abuse you are not alone and there is help. Advocates are available to provide support, information and create a plan for safety. Services are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more visit nhcadsv.org. 

CONFIDENTIAL STATEWIDE HOTLINES
24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline:
1-866-644-3574
24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline:
1-800-277-5570
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About the Coalition:
NHCADSV is a statewide network of 13 independent member programs committed to ending sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking, through direct services to victims, community education, and public policy advocacy. The NHCADSV and its 13 member programs do not discriminate based on gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin, immigration status, or religious or political affiliation. For more information visit www.nhcadsv.org.