Agencies to share information about domestic abuse

A government review of a murder and suicide in Truro eight years ago called for a coordinated, inter-agency response to address such violence.

In 2000, Bruce George shot his partner, Lori Lee Maxwell, and then turned his gun on himself. During the 17 months the couple had lived in Truro, there were 15 family violence incidents.

Five service providers, all under the umbrella of the Department of Justice had some sort of interaction with the couple, and police twice took possession of George’s guns, but did not retain them.

Elaine Smith, executive director of Juniper House, says a coordinated approach by the agencies involved might have prevented the deaths in Truro. Smith was among the co-signers in Digby April 9 of a new protocol to address family violence.

Also signing the protocol were representatives of the RCMP, the province’s Community Services department, Victim Services office and probation services.

The agencies will now use a recognized assessment process that measures the frequency and severity of domestic violence as well as the risk for continued abuse.

Smith said results of the assessment could be used to counsel a client and develop a safety plan for the woman and her children. She adds that Juniper House will still honor the confidentiality of clients, when they request it.

An outreach program of Juniper House provides information, counseling and shelter to abused women in Digby.