Firearms significantly escalate the lethality of domestic violence situations.

We know from research that a woman is five times more likely to be murdered when her abuser has access to a gun. The accessibility of firearms for abusers creates an environment that furthers the power and control they have on a victim, and the threat of death is pervasive.

The identified domestic violence homicides in Tarrant County this year underscore the grim reality of this research, as all six homicides were due to gunshot wounds.

The recent Supreme Court ruling in US vs. Rahimi, which upheld the prohibition of firearm possession by domestic violence abusers under Protective Orders, marks a significant victory for the safety of survivors. This decision reinforces what we know to be true - Protective Orders provide a buffer of safety for those escaping abusive relationships.

As a county dedicated to keeping victims safe and holding offenders accountable, we are heartened by the Supreme Court's decision. This ruling acknowledges the severe danger that firearms pose in the hands of abusers and upholds the necessity of legal protections to prevent further tragedy. We remain committed to advocating for the rights and safety of survivors, and this decision strengthens our resolve to continue this work.

If you are a victim seeking a protective order, you can call our hotline at 877-701-7233, fill out an application at protectiveorder.tarrantcounty.com, or by contacting Legal Aid of Northwest Texas.