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Coalition Testimony on SB141, relative to the procedure for conducting firearm background checks4/28/2021 House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, April 28, 2021
SB141, relative to the procedure for conducting firearm background checks Testimony of Pamela Keilig Public Policy Specialist, NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence Good morning Mister Chair and Members of the Committee. My name is Pamela Keilig, and I am the Public Policy Specialist at the NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. The Coalition is an umbrella organization for 12 community-based crisis centers who each year provide free and confidential services to nearly 15,000 survivors of sexual and domestic violence. I am here to speak in opposition to SB141, which would eliminate the state’s Gunline and place victims of domestic violence and stalking at a heightened risk of lethal assault in New Hampshire. Thank you for the opportunity to share this testimony. Introduction New Hampshire’s Gunline serves as a state back-up registry allowing law enforcement in New Hampshire to conduct criminal background checks when individuals attempt to purchase firearms, or petition to return their firearms after they have been legally relinquished due to domestic or sexual violence incidents. New Hampshire is a partial point of contact state, whereby the Gunline conducts background checks on handguns, and the Federal Government conducts long-arm background checks via the NICS system. This system has been in place for over 20 years in the Granite State, and there are New Hampshire-specific public safety concerns that will ultimately need to be addressed before we eliminate the Gunline completely. These concerns are not adequately or appropriately rectified in SB141. Public safety needs to be the primary focus when considering overhauling a system that the state has utilized for over two decades. We need a system that is a flexible and recognizes the complexity of domestic violence and stalking cases. Domestic Violence Homicides in New Hampshire and Risk of Lethality The Coalition has significant concerns about the process taken to ensure a smooth transition should the Gunline be eliminated. SB141 does not provide enough clarity around this process, nor evoke confidence that it is even feasible to make this change. As written, this bill lacks transparency around ensuring that cases won’t fall through the cracks and that the most lethal individuals in the state won’t be able to access firearms. According to the 2018-2019 Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee Biennial Report, 21 people lost their lives to domestic violence homicide in the Granite State, representing 45% of all homicides during that timeframe. This is a dramatic increase from the prior reporting period, illustrating that domestic violence remains one of the most prevalent legal and social problems in our state. In fact, on average, domestic violence is a factor in 77% of state’s murder/suicides and 51% for domestic violence homicides. Additionally, thousands of individuals sought protection from domestic violence and stalking between 2018 – 2019. Nearly 8,000 victims filed for domestic violence petitions, and 4,200 civil stalking petitions were filed by people requesting protection from abuse. In addition, 7,501 Criminal Bail Protective Orders were issued. Selling the wrong person, a firearm could be life or death. When reviewing cause of death for the domestic violence homicides a firearm was used nearly 50% of the time; with handguns being the cause of homicide over long guns 9 out of 10 times. This means that firearms are the leading cause of death in domestic violence cases. We know that the most dangerous time for a victim is when they are trying to leave an abusive relationship. It is essential that all safeguards remain in place to prevent and deter escalating violence. This is particularly important when reviewing data from the Lethality Assessment Program, also known as LAP. Over the last two years, law enforcement departments across the state have conducted LAP screenings where 54% of victims (over 3,000 individuals) screened in as “high danger”. This means they are at a heightened risk of fatality. The fact that more than half of LAP screens are recognized as high danger is deeply concerning and indicates a need for protective measures to ensure the safety of victims. Moreover, crisis center advocates have reported an increase in the number of lethal cases over the last year. This growing trend of more escalated violence demands that we take victim safety extremely seriously and ensure that all the tools that we can utilize to prevent lethal violence be maintained. The elimination of the Gunline at this juncture would place too many victims at unnecessary risk for their safety. SB141 Fails to Address Safety Concerns for Domestic Violence and Stalking Victims While SB141 makes some attempts to address victim safety concerns, there are significant gaps in the legislation that need to be acknowledged, particularly in ensuring that violent offenders remain prohibited from purchasing or acquiring firearms in New Hampshire. As it stands, this bill is missing critical provisions that would ensure the same level of comprehensive protections currently afforded victims of domestic violence and stalking would be covered in the new system. We recognize the rights of citizens in our state to purchase and own firearms, but that right should not replace the right to public safety that all citizens of our state should have. There are three specific areas that this bill fails to address that would be detrimental to victims of domestic violence and stalking: Addressing Cases where the offender’s DOB is not identified. Approximately 6% of cases where protective orders are issued the court does not have a date of birth for the defendant.
Conclusion It’s imperative that the state’s background check system be comprehensive, responsive and flexible to account for the realities of the highly dangerous and lethal experiences that survivors face, and that law enforcement have to address in the field. The outright elimination of the gunline without sufficient planning and evaluation trivializes the very real danger that victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking face every day in this state. There are still too many questions left unanswered that are of serious concern around what the transition out of the current system into a new system would be like, and how the unique cases and situations that the law enforcement and the courts manage will be addressed. We understand that the majority of gun owners in this state are not abusers. But we also need to recognize that when abusers do have access to guns it has deadly consequences. If we are going to overturn a 20-year-old system, it is imperative that these safety concerns be adequately addressed. We urge the committee to vote ITL on this bill and prioritize the safety of individuals experiencing domestic and sexual violence in our state. Thank you so much for your time and I’d be happy to answer any questions.
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March 1, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Alyssa Dandrea (802) 451-8491, alyssa@nhcadsv.org “It’s unconscionable to think that dozens of boys and girls experienced horrific sexual, physical, and emotional abuse at the hands of those whose sole duty was to protect and care for them,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, the Coalition’s Director of Public Affairs. “Children ordered to a secure institution by the juvenile legal system are among the most vulnerable in New Hampshire, and it’s horrifying to think that staff viewed them as easy targets for victimization.” Children who experience prolonged stress in toxic environments are more likely to suffer from substance abuse disorders, chronic health problems, and poverty and in adulthood. “As a state, we must ensure that our children have community-based support that encourages their success,” Grady Sexton continued. “Those who perpetrated violent acts on children in their care must be held accountable. These courageous survivors deserve justice and should not have to carry the burdens of silence and shame any longer.” We encourage anyone who has been sexually or physically abused, no matter when the abuse occurred to seek confidential and compassionate support or information through one of the 13 member programs of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Caring advocates are available 24/7 at the Coalition’s statewide helpline at 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. Retired Police Chief Donald Sullivan Named Independent Compliance Overseer for St. Paul’s School1/12/2021 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. Resignation of Jeffrey Maher as the Independent Compliance Overseer for St. Paul’s School10/19/2020 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:
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.
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.
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
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 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 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. |
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