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Experts to domestic violence victims: "If you ask for anything, ask for an advocate"

Posted at 8:46 PM, Dec 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-18 20:46:52-05

WINCHESTER, Ky. (LEX 18) — In Thursday's LEX 18 Investigates, we told you about Ninya Mason, a Clark County woman who says she feels "lost in the system" when it comes to domestic violence orders and enforcing them.

Her story is not uncommon. Darlene Thomas, executive director of GreenHouse17 in Lexington, understands Mason's fear and frustration.

"What struck me the most is she has to try and convince a community that she is in fear and that she should not have to live this way," Thomas explained.

GreenHouse17 is an organization that helps survivors of intimate partner violence. Thomas knows
many people are intimidated by the judicial system.

"Our job is to make sure survivors don't get lost in a very cumbersome complicated system," said Thomas.

In Kentucky, Thomas says one in three women are survivors of intimate partner violence. She wants survivors to speak up and ask for help if they feel the judicial process is not moving in the right direction.

"I think the best advice I'd have is to make sure if you call if you ask for anything, ask for an advocate who is my advocate? Who can help me who serves this community?" said Thomas.

You can learn more about GreenHouse17 at this link.