Mother’s Day in Muncie ended in tragedy after a woman lost her life in a shooting that shocked our community. As families mourn, many people are once again asking the same painful question: what barriers keep victims from reaching out before violence escalates? Across Indiana, survivors of domestic violence often speak about fears of not being believed, fears of retaliation, and fears that reporting abuse could trigger investigations involving their children. Some mothers say they avoid asking for help because they fear being judged, blamed, or even losing custody while trying to escape dangerous situations. This petition is not about blaming law enforcement, DCS, or the courts for one specific tragedy. It is about recognizing that many victims feel trapped between abuse and fear of the system itself. To help prevent future tragedies,

we are calling for:

• Faster service of protective orders

• Better communication with victims during active cases

• Trauma-informed responses during domestic violence and DCS investigations

• Increased funding for victim advocates, shelters, and emergency resources

• Improved coordination between law enforcement, DCS, mental health services, and victim advocates

• Stronger protection measures when children are involved 

• More education and outreach so victims understand their rights and available resources without fear

• Community review of current domestic violence response procedures and unserved protective orders

 Victims should feel safe asking for help not afraid of what may happen if they do. Too many families are left grieving after violence occurs. Our community must focus not only on responding to tragedy, but helping prevent it before another life is lost.