Over 1,400 reports of domestic violence in Mission in 2023: RCMP

Mission had over 1,400 reports of intimate partner violence last year.

According to a press release from Mission RCMP, intimate partner violence occurs daily and is one of the reasons for the Purple Lights campaign, which aims to raise awareness by bringing people together, offering support and purple in various locations around Mission Hanging lights to help people are more aware of the problem.

This year’s Purple Lights campaign began with events last weekend at Oxygen Yoga and the Mission Friendship Center.

Stephanie Atzinger, Mission RCMP victim services coordinator, is also involved in the Purple Lights campaign.

“Intimate partner violence is an ongoing problem faced by so many people in our communities. We work closely with people going through these situations to support them and show them they are not alone,” she said.

Mission RCMP said not all of the 1,418 reports last year involved physical violence – it could be a heated argument that escalated quickly, someone harassing their former partner by constantly sending them messages, or someone harassing their partner makes threats.

“However, many other intimate partner violence calls to police were the result of serious physical assaults – and keep in mind that 418 represents only the number of incidents actually reported,” the department said.

“Regardless of the details, all of these calls had one thing in common: two people were in serious conflict in a current or previous intimate relationship, where someone was hurt, felt unsafe, or simply needed help.”

RCMP advise those experiencing domestic violence not to wait for violence to occur, but to call police if help is needed.

“If it happened before, it will probably happen again. Intimate partner abusers can be very good at apologizing, excusing their behavior, and reassuring you that they have changed. Be aware that once it has happened once, there is a greater chance of it happening again,” police said.

RCMP are also urging victims not to blame themselves.

“No injury is okay. In every relationship there will be conflict from time to time, but if the conflict in your relationship is so great that you are afraid, feel like you can’t leave, or have been physically hurt, then you know that these things are not normal and abnormal,” the department said.

Anyone in immediate danger is advised to call 911. For previous incidents, call Mission RCMP’s non-emergency line (604-826-7161) or Victim Services (604-820-3504) for information about support services that can help.

“Some people don’t call the police because they don’t want their partner to be arrested. Others may not call because they believe nothing will change. Although every situation is different, talk to us, let us know your concerns and we will help you understand what can be done,” the department said.

The Purple Lights campaign continues October 19th at the Mission City Farmer’s Market in Centennial Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It ends with a community walk on October 26th from 10 a.m. to noon, starting at the SARA for Women office at 33070 5th Avenue.