Sarnia police say they've noticed a concerning increase in charges of assault with a weapon, choking, and forceable confinement this year.
In a social media post on Friday, the service said while it doesn't share specific information publicly about intimate partner violence (IPV), it is important to understand the reality of IPV in Sarnia.
Lambton County Council declared IPV an epidemic in Sarnia-Lambton in 2023.
Since then, Sarnia police said calls for service related to IPV have decreased slightly, but charges related to assault, and assault with a weapon increased.
More information about spousal or domestic violence can be found here.
Sarnia police said if you or someone you know, is experiencing IPV, you can access local services here:
• In an emergency, call 911
• Sarnia Police Services: 519-344-8861 extension 0
• Women’s Interval Home: 519-336-5200 or 1-800-265-1412
• The Centre Sarnia-Lambton: 519-337-3154 or 1-888-231-0536
• 24/7 Crisis Line: 519-337-3320
• Victim Services: 519-344-8861, extension 5238
• Réseau Femme: 1-888-946-3029
November is IPV awareness month.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said IPV affects millions of people and can result in immediate and long-lasting health, social and economic consequences.
While it impacts people of all genders, ages and socioeconomic, racial, educational, ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds, WHO said women experience this form of gender-based violence at much higher rates, most often perpetrated by men.
