Milwaukee sees uptick in domestic violence cases during holiday season
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Domestic violence is on the rise in Milwaukee. Police confirmed two deaths related to partner violence that happened over the weekend. The Asha Project said they see upticks in domestic violence homicides during the winter season.
Sunday morning started off on a violent and tragic foot. Around 2 a.m. near 33rd and Center, friends of 30-year-old Tynesha Crawford say she was shot dead. Milwaukee police said it appeared to be a partner related homicide. She was a mother of four.
"Tynesha was just an overall great person and great mother. She put her kids first, before anything," said Moniese Reese, friend of Crawford.
The suspect, Quran Robey, was taken into custody Monday morning.
An hour after Crawford's shooting, near Mariners and Fountain, Milwaukee police said a 44-year-old was shot dead. Milwaukee police said the suspect, a 60-year-old, took their own life.
Crystal Ayad of The Asha Project said the holiday season is when they notice domestic homicides and severe partner attacks peak.
"During the winter, fatal attacks or near-fatal attacks increase, but people aren’t calling our office as much as we would like," said Ayad.
Ayad attributes that to the codependent and interdependent relationships victims and their abusers have, which could intensify during the holidays.
"It's a huge indication that domestic violence isn't taking a break because the feel-good season is here. It's increasing, if anything," said Ayad.
The Domestic Violence Homicide Help Organization has reported over 40 domestic violence murders in Milwaukee since Oct. 16.
Ayad said The Asha Project will offer a toy giveaway to their clients this upcoming winter.
"So the people know that you don't have to stay in a relationship for the resources that abuser may provide," said Ayad.
Domestic violence resources:
- The Asha Project: 414-252-0075
- Sojourner Family Peace Center: 414-933-2722
- Milwaukee Women’s Center: 414-449-4777
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233