Domestic Abuse is a very serious offense. All too often it goes unreported, unsaid or unnoticed. Years of it can deprive the victim of any sense of self worth and eventually make them succumb to it and feel as if they deserve it.
Nobody deserves to be abused physically, mentally, emotionally. Enduring pain and suffering at the hands of another is wrong in any book. Especially the law.
Recently, NFL running back, Ray Rice, was released from the Baltimore Ravens organization and suspended indefinitely when video was released of him abusing his then girlfriend and now fiancee in an elevator. The problem is, video had already been released. Enough video to show that she was the victim of abuse. How did the NFL react? A four game suspension. When public outcry couldn’t be ignored, NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, reevaluated the NFL’s complacent policy and enacted far harsher penalties for those who commit domestic abuse. Many say that was too little too late.
On Monday, September 9th, it took TMZ releasing the full video to give the public full awareness of what transpired in that elevator. It was disgusting and barbaric. Upon seeing this, the Ravens and the NFL quickly disassociated themselves with Mr. Rice, and his football career (at least in the NFL) is seemingly ended.
While it is good news that the team and the league acted appropriately in the measures they took, on the other hand it’s quite frightening how much was needed for them to act.
It took a gossip site to uncover an all too common truth.
For every Ray Rice case, there are a myriad like it who unfortunately don’t have surveillance tape or curious paparazzi prodding into the story. Many times, it goes unnoticed unless the victim speaks up. Let what happened with this incident be a wake up call. We herald and champion those who play the game we love so much, but domestic abuse is a game ender. Let’s not let dazzling moves and touchdowns skew our moral compass. When we see, hear about, or suspect someone is being abused, we need to speak up. Not just victims, but witnesses too. We shouldn’t have to wait for the replay to act.
If you or someone you know is suffering at the hands of another, be it physical, mental and or emotional abuse, you have someone who will listen. Give us a call today.
Attorney Jeffrey B. Sexton, P.A. 407-293-1144 or 1-888-293-1144
If you are in need of assistance right now, refer to:
FLORIDA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE-1-800-500-1119
