STATEMENT: on the Quadruple Domestic Violence Homicide in Canby
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, Jan. 23rd, 2019
CONTACT: Melissa Erlbaum, (503) 557-5810, melissae@cwsor.org
Statement from Melissa Erlbaum, Executive Director at Clackamas Women’s Services, on Quadruple Domestic Violence Homicide in Canby
“Our hearts go out to the survivors, their families, and the whole Canby and Woodburn area in the wake of this terrible tragedy. This loss is not just loss for the family, but for the entire community.
“While we search for answers and await more information about this terrible crime, it is important to remember that domestic violence is a cycle of abusive behavior that often starts with subtle psychological abuses that grow in frequency and severity over time. While individual factors such as mental health, addiction, or prior abuse are often correlated with violence, the true underlying cause is the desire to maintain power and control over one’s victims. Perpetrators escalate their violence over time–sometimes to the point of lethal forms of violence, including strangulation. Numerous studies show how dangerous people who strangle others are not only to their primary targets but to others in their path.
“We are so grateful for the incredible response we’ve already witnessed from concerned and caring individuals—a special thank you to the first responders we work so closely with at Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and 911 Dispatch who responded to the domestic violence homicide. Additionally, thank you to the incredible neighbors who have offered their care and support, the elected officials, social service providers, partner agencies, mental health professionals and school officials who are doing what they can to support their community. In times like these we are reminded of the power and resiliency of a community that stands together and carries each other toward healing in the midst of difficulty.
“This is an unfortunate reminder that domestic violence does not impact just one victim or one family, but impacts us all, from those closest to the harm to those of us hearing of this awful story. As concerned and caring community members, we all have a part to play in addressing domestic violence and ensuring victims have access to short and long-term support with the resulting trauma.
“If you or a loved one is experiencing domestic violence, know that we will always be here to provide confidential advocacy and safety planning on our 24-hr Crisis Line: (503) 654-2288 or through our drop-in advocacy services located at A Safe Place Family Justice Center, open Mon.-Thurs. 8am-4pm and Fri. 8am-1pm.”
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