Protection Orders Available for Juveniles
There is now a new legal option available for juveniles in abusive relationships.
The Ohio senate unamiously passed House Bill 10 which allows juvenile court judges to issue protection orders for youths under the age of eighteen.
"Abuse is on the increase, dating violence is increasing over the last several years and we are sending a message that there is help and protection for them," says Janie Malloy from Response.
House Bill 10 is being named the Shynerra Grant Law for the 17-year-old Toledo teen whose abusive ex-boyfriend shot her in the head in June of 2005. Grant’s family had tried to get a protection order prior to the shooting and was denied. But now that has changed.
"They will be able to, through the help of their parents and the juvenile court, be able to obtain a protection order and for the juvenile court to a minor who has had a prior abusive relationship or is in one now," says Malloy.
According to the Ohio Domestic Violence Network approximately 41% of 11-14 year olds know friends who have been verbally abused via cell phone, IM or social netwoorking sites. Also,10% of teens ages 15-18 indicate they have been physically abused (kicked, punched, choked, slapped or hit) by an angry partner in their life.
Malloy says students in abusive relationships should talk to a parent or trusted teacher or they can call the National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline 1-866-331-9474.
Katie Jeffries
