The triple murder-suicide early Thursday morning north of Claresholm underscores the need to take action when we witness controlling and/or abusive behaviour. But at what point do we come forward and report such behaviours, and when is police intervention called for in situations of domestic violence? It is too easy to allow it to be someone else’s problem… domestic violence is everyone’s concern.

Derek Jensen was an individual who became increasingly domineering. He displayed controlling and abusive behaviours including obsessive phone calls to his girlfriend, arguments, threats and incidents of pushing and shoving. All of these actions are indicators of violence.

Domestic violence is the attempt, act or intent of someone within a relationship to intimidate, exploit, control or have power over another. Violence can take many forms, including: verbal, physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, spiritual, financial, and the violation of rights. Domestic violence may include a single act, or a number of acts forming a pattern of abuse.

The Calgary Domestic Violence Collective (CDVC) works with community partners to provide a coordinated response to violence prevention and intervention in Calgary. CDVC believes increasing public awareness and education of this issue is crucial to reducing the excessive number of domestic violence incidents in Alberta.

Brigitte Baradoy, the co-chair of CDVC, and the Executive Director of Discovery House believes that domestic violence continues to be a huge social issue which needs attention in our communities. This case shows how things can escalate quickly, with tragic results. She notes that there are many resources available such as the gethelpgivehelp.ca website, which lists the domestic violence shelters in Calgary and area.

People who see or suspect violence need to seek outside help. Immediate action will help neighbors, friends and loved ones feel less alone and less helpless. If people get help early, physical abuse, violence and severe injury can often be prevented. We can all contribute to the solution!

Collaborative work is being done to help prevent domestic violence in Calgary. CDVC and Discovery House encourage Calgarians who suspect they know someone affected by domestic violence, to reach out and connect with the numerous agencies available for help.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse please call one of the following 24-hour help lines:

Family Violence Information Line 403-310-1818 (Toll Free)
Connect Family & Sexual Abuse Network 403-237-5888
Distress Centre 403-266-HELP (4357)