A ROADMAP OF RAGE, A SAFE HAVEN AND THE REALITY, IT'S NOT SOCIOECONOMIC

The Hustler Files with Lisa Reilly - Stories That Challenge What You Thought You Knew

This milestone episode for The Hustler Files was recorded at the Hampden County Jail, in Western Massachusetts, but this conversation with Sheriff Nick Cocchi, who runs the jail and Liz Dineen, CEO of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts could take place in any city or county, USA. Domestic violence month may be in October, but it's not a once-a-year issue. It's also NOT just a female issue. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner violence and domestic violence does not discriminate. It affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds, which is why the YWCA is no longer just a place to find a pool and an exercise class. The YWCA is now a safe haven for women and men who have experienced domestic violence. A place where support for survivors is their top priority with no questions asked, but a shoulder is offered. To also offer support and awareness is Sheriff Cocchi, one of the most progressive Sheriffs anywhere in the U.S. Sadly, this Sheriff had to experience the recent loss of a most beloved Assistant due to domestic violence, but that only fueled his fire to bring awareness to the domestic violence issue that can be right under our noses and thus partnering with the YWCA to amplify the message. As Sheriff Cocchi says, "there is no shame in asking for help if you're a victim of domestic violence, it's not YOUR problem, it's the abuser's".