If anyone ever doubts the extent,  severity, and ramifications  of domestic violence, they only need to consider the case of George Jenewicz in New Jersey who was initially convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend, Eunice Gillens, by dismembering her and cooking her head to destroy the woman’s features.  Though he argued he shot her in self defense and dismembered her in a panic, the jury convicted him of murder.  That conviction, however, was overturned by the New Jersey Supreme Court.  Despite citing trial errors as rationale for the Court’s decision, it is readily apparent that serious and problematic issues encompassed this relationship which resulted in brutal and tragic victimization.

Individuals who become entrenched in relationships that are replete with conflicts and problems that escalate into violent episodes need to understand that the violence is not a one-time occurrence.  To the contrary, it is only the start of what often evolves into an increasingly volatile and highly dangerous situation. If the abuser issues verbal threats to harm or kill the significant other or if weapons, such as guns or knives, may be in the abuser’s possession, the lethality risks are greatly augmented.  The verbal threats, as well as the potential for actions to follow words, should never be ignored or minimized.  The probability that something will happen is a reality that can result in the victim being severely injured or, as in the case of Ms. Gillens, killed.

Commonly, victims in abusive situations will proffer a broad range of excuses for the abusers’ behavior. They will find fault with themselves and will accept blame for their abuser’s actions.  They find reasons not to leave, and they justify remaining in a violent environment.  Consequently, the cycle of violence begins to spin like a wheel out of control. 

Victims of domestic violence need to recognize that there are many alternatives to enduring abuse, and they include access to victim service providers, programs, and an array of resources.  Victims who find themselves in these situations need to take charge of their lives and escape their abusers before they parallel the tragic story of Eunice Gillens.