Because of the complicated dynamics between domestic violence victims and perpetrators, Kelly said sometimes prosecutors need to think of the community at large in addition to just the wishes of the named victim.
The assault case, which involved allegations of strangulation, was set for trial on May 19 when the named victim in the case asserted her Fifth Amendment right to refuse to testify in the case.
The Daily Camera is not naming the woman because she was the named victim in a domestic violence case and is also not naming the defendant because the charges against him were dropped. The Boulder public defender’s office, which represented the defendant, did not comment on the case.
First, Kelly said prosecutors must look at specific red flags like strang ulation as a method and prior cases, both of which were present in this case. Kelly said women who are strangled are seven times more likely to become homicide victims at a later time.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can all the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org.
Kelly also noted that in some cases, there is enough other evidence to move forward with prosecution even without the named victim. She said that was not possible in this case.
Prosecution is not always the answer for victims and it is quite presumptuous for the government to try to control victims. “Perhaps if prosecutors changes their view of what makes victims safe we might actually start to address with honesty the DV problems in this state and country.”.
She also prosecuted a Casey Middle School counselor who admitted in 2007 to soliciting a prostitute online. He was given 100 hours of community service and 10 days on jail work crew.
She also prosecuted Joseph Dowler, who was convicted of killing his 9-week-old son, Tanner Dowler, in 2002. Dowler is serving a 60-year prison sentence. Quiram has prosecuted numerous high-profile and homicide cases including Roy Gene Seagraves, who was convicted in the March 1982 slaying of Gary Stoner.