Observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month during October, the 22nd Judicial Circuit Family Violence Coordinating Council of McHenry County College and Turning Point will host a domestic violence strangulation Mock Trial from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 7 in room 204 at the McHenry County courthouse, 2200 N. Seminary Avenue in Woodstock.

The mock trial is designed to educate law enforcement officers, social agency personnel and health care providers on the effects of domestic violence. The mock trial will exhibit an investigation from beginning to end through the court process and will demonstrate typical signs and symptoms of strangulation, the investigation of the crime and the importance of evidence based prosecution as well as clear and concise courtroom testimony.

According to research, 10 percent of violent deaths in the U.S. each year are due to strangulation, with six female victims to every male. The majority of women victims who have experienced strangulation have also experienced other types of abuse in the same incident.

To register or for further information, call Jennifer Kenning at (815) 338-8081 or email her at jkenning@mchenryturningpoint.org. For more information on the 22nd Judicial Circuit Family Violence Coordinating Council, contact Bev Thomas at (815) 479-7792.