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Pocono News Section
Domestic Violence Leads to Five Deaths in Four Weeks
Domestic Violence Leads to Five Deaths in Four Weeks - Thursday, July 9, 2009 at 6:54PM EST
Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Thursday, Jul 9, 2009 @ 06:54pm EST
EFFORT, MONROE COUNTY - There have been five domestic violence related deaths in Monroe County in the past four weeks. The latest victims are Victoria Adams and her son Sidney Parrish.
On June 21 officer s say Bernard Uckele murdered his son Justin.
On June 8 State Trooper Joshua Miller and accused kidnapper Daniel Autenrieth died in a shootout.
Family and friends say Victoria worried Michael might kill her. They saw the signs of violence but didn't know how to help.
Family spokesperson Nancy Heil said, "He was a very jealous person, very controlling."
Police say Michael Parrish shot 21 year old Victoria and their 18 month old son Sidney to death Monday night. "How can you kill your own son?" asked Heil.
Heil told Eyewitness News Michael was angry because Sidney was born with a heart defect. She explained, "There's been jealousy since the baby was born because he needed so much attention around the clock."
Heil also said there were classic signs of domestic violence in the relationship. She claimed Michael rarely let Victoria out of the house and banned her from seeing family and friends. She said Michael once broke Victoria's nose but Victoria never called police. She apparently begged her family to keep the secret. Like many women, she was afraid to leave her situation.
Heil said, "I hope anybody else out there that has any kind of abusive relationship takes this and doesn't take anything for granted and looks out for themselves."
Representatives from Women's Resources of Monroe County say Victoria's story has raised awareness about the issue. Hotline phone have been ringing non stop. Jane Koelble is Director of Programs for the organization. She said, "They think 'boy that looks an awful lot like what I'm going through.'"
She said women can always call for help. Services are free and confidential. If you know someone in a violent situation who is too afraid to come forward you are also welcome to call the hotline to learn you can help.
the toll free hotline number is 1-866-421-4200. | | |
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