24/7 HelpLine: 734-995-5444 If you are in immediate danger, call 911. |
Linea de Apoyo de 24 horas: 734-995-5444 Si esta en grave peligro, llame a 911. |
SafeHouse Center Statement Issued by Barbara Niess-May, Executive Director
On July 16, SafeHouse Center learned through social media that Courtney Neely had been murdered by her former partner, Michael Taylor on July 15 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. After he killed her, he killed himself. Their four month old baby survived. This happened despite the fact that Courtney sought help for the situation. She had left, sought safety, got a new place and started a new life for her and her infant child.
As an organization, we are saddened by this unnecessary loss of life. And, it is compounded by the fact that there was no public mention of this murder/suicide by the news media, law enforcement or the criminal system as a whole. Courtney died because of domestic violence. Making no mention of this murder propels the belief that domestic violence is the fault of the victim and that her life was not important.
There are critical components to this case, that we believe the public should know about:
Domestic violence continues at extraordinary levels in our community. Speaking the truth about how it impacts survivors is critical if we as a community expect to end domestic violence. Our community needs to know about the threatening ways in which domestic violence is present in the lives of survivors.
Also, survivors deserve to know how dangerous assailants can be. Assailants will use all the tactics they have to gain and maintain power and control over their partners. There is help and support in our community.
SafeHouse Center is the organization in Washtenaw County that provides help and support to survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Services include 24/7 HelpLine, emergency shelter, children’s services, counseling, support groups, legal advocacy including assistance with obtaining Personal Protection Orders, training and community education. Services can be accessed through our helpline, 734-995-5444. For more information please visit our website at www.safehousecenter.org.