Imagine going through the unimaginable - being physically assaulted by someone you trusted, only for them to be legally allowed to live under the same roof as you, hovering over your already fragile sense of safety. This is my story, a domestic violence victim in Rhode Island. My abuser, despite being convicted with undeniable video evidence, continues to reside in the same building due to outdated and dangerous state laws.

In Rhode Island, if an abuser owns the property, they are allowed to stay even if there's a No Contact Order (NCO) in place. This archaic statute recklessly endangers victims by suggesting separation is enough, even if it means merely a wall divides the abuser from their target. Many victims, like myself, have endured torment beyond comprehension. Due to circumstances beyond my control, including recovering from surgery and being unable to work, I am trapped in a cycle of emotional and mental torture, virtually stalked by a person who should have no place in my life.

The law must prioritize the safety and well-being of victims over the property rights of abusers. It is intolerable to demand victims to relocate, especially when they are recovering, financially strained, or lack other viable housing options due to restrictions imposed by their abusers. It is time we forced a legislative reevaluation.

Statistics repeatedly show that victims of domestic violence are at the greatest risk during the separation period, escalating the need for enhanced protective measures. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence. Our legislation must reflect a commitment to reducing these numbers by acting protectively rather than permissively.

Let's rally to amend Rhode Island laws to eliminate the loophole that allows abusers to reside in proximity to their victims. We need law reforms that require abuser relocation rather than victim relocation whenever feasible, unless the victim willingly chooses otherwise. This is more than a legal necessity; it's moral and assuredly the right course. It’s time Rhode Island valued lives over mere legalities.

Join me in urging Rhode Island lawmakers to take immediate action to amend our state laws. Protect victims, enforce peace, and restrict the rights of abusers to encroach on the safety of those they have harmed. Sign this petition today and stand with us in demanding essential changes to ensure a secure environment for all victims of domestic violence.