Study Connects Mass Shooting And Domestic Violence
A recent study found that there has been one mass shooting per month in the United States since 2009, and domestic violence was a common factor in many of the cases. The study was commissioned by the advocacy group Mayors Against Illegal Guns. Among some of the more interesting findings:
- Mass shootings account for less than 1 percent of murders involving firearms.
- Up to a third of mass shooters may have been legally barred from possessing firearms due to mental illness or criminal conviction.
- In 40 percent of cases, the shooter killed a current or former spouse or partner. 20 percent of mass shooters had a prior domestic violence charge.
Family law and personal security
Even though domestic violence is a common thread in many mass-shooting incidents, is a domestic violence charge a reliable predictor of such instances? Some observers say “no”, citing the fact that around 50 percent of domestic violence charges are subsequently dropped. Of course, just because a charge is dismissed does not mean that there was no evidence to support the charge. A victim may voluntarily withdraw a complaint for many reasons, even if the complaint is perfectly valid.
Newport family law attorneys suggest a careful approach when trying to connect the dots between family violence and a violent character, asking:
- What were the circumstances of the arrest?
- What exactly did the person allegedly do?
- How many incidents, not just arrests, have there been?
- How recent are these incidents?
- Has there been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a divorce and a relocation?
Family law issues can arise under many different circumstances. For a free consultation with attorneys who understand all these circumstances, contact our office.
