Although domestic violence deaths in Wisconsin went down in 2010 from 2009, both years still record the highest numbers of domestic violence-related homicides within the last decade, according to a report released Wednesday.
The report, released by the Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence, provides analysis of domestic violence deaths in Wisconsin for 2010.
The number of domestic violence-related deaths decreased from 67 fatalities in 2009 to 58 in 2010. Both 2009 and 2010 had the highest total number of domestic violence-related homicides in the last decade, with 52 and 51 victims respectively.
Of the six cases of homicides by legal intervention, three occurred in Dane County.
WCADV Executive Director Patti Seger said the report serves as a way to recognize and remember the victims of domestic of violence and raise awareness about those who are currently suffering abuse.
""The numbers don't tell really tell the whole story,"" Seger said in a press conference.
Dane County Sheriff's Dept. Capt. Richelle Anhalt emphasized the need to ""change a culture where domestic violence continues to go unreported and is accepted as a private matter.""
""It is our collective responsibility to foster healing and strategize ways to end the cycle of violence,"" Anahlt said.
