The Snoqualmie City Council passed Ordinance 1233 prohibiting the exposure of minor children to domestic violence, including children the immediate presence of domestic violence, or witnessed or heard by a child under age 18.
In support of Washington State domestic violence laws, this measure will further protect youth in Snoqualmie by making it an added gross misdemeanor charge on top of a regular domestic violence charge. This law carries an added punishment of imprisonment of not less than 30 days if convicted. It also enables the city prosecutor to request an immediate no-contact order between the perpetrator and the child(ren).
“By adopting this ordinance, we are in a better position to help protect the youth in our community who have been impacted by domestic violence,” said Snoqualmie Police Chief Perry Phipps.
Exposing children to domestic violence can cause emotional and developmental difficulties, including aggressive behavior, hypervigilance, and sleep disturbances, among other outcomes.
As stated by the Family Support Division of the King County Prosecuting Attorney, “Children get hurt when they see their parents being yelled at, pushed or hit. They may feel scared and ashamed or think they caused the problem. Children grow up learning that it’s okay to hurt other people or let other people hurt them. A third of all children who see their mothers beaten develop emotional problems. Boys who see their fathers beat their mothers are ten times more likely to be abusive in their adult intimate relationships.”
Domestic Violence Resources
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
LifeWire:
Call: 1-800-827-8840 (24/7)
National Domestic Violence Hotline:
Call: 1-800-799-SAFE
Text: LOVEIS to 22522
King County Domestic Violence Resources
Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
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Contact:
Joan Pliego
City of Snoqualmie
jpliego@snoqualmiewa.gov
425-281-3317