BOSTON, MA--Since 1994 the Gay Men's Domestic Violence Project (GMDVP) has been working with gay male survivors of partner abuse in Massachusetts. The organization is saddened to hear of the death of David Walton, a victim of a domestic violence homicide in a camping ground in Provincetown on April 3rd. This is the second confirmed domestic violence homicide in the past month involving a gay male couple. There is at one additional male on male homicide in the same period that may also be determined to be a gay male domestic violence homicide in the future once more facts are known about the case.
James Costello was arraigned on charges of assault and battery with a deadly weapon according to the Cape and Islands District Attorney's Office. David Walton, who lived in the same building as Costello in the Taunton area was found dead by a police officer on a campground in Provincetown. The circumstance of the homicide has yet to be determined, but it is a stark reminder of the pervasiveness and potential lethality of domestic violence within our society, including Gay, Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) relationships.
1 in 4 GLBT people experience domestic violence, the same rate as experienced by heterosexual women. Unfortunately, the potential support for GLBT survivors can be greatly hindered by the lack of seriousness attributed to the issue. A 2010 survey commissioned by GMDVP found that 82% of the GLBT community felt domestic violence was a priority for the community, yet only 24% could name a resource to help them if they were a victim. This is an alarming disconnect that should concern all; including domestic violence programs, the GLBT community, the police and other service providers.
As in the case of Brian Bergeron, who was murdered a month ago in Malden Massachusetts, and of David Walton in Provincetown, domestic violence can end in fatal circumstances as a result of a violent act; but other times, domestic violence can be played out in more subtle ways, through the use of psychological, verbal, financial, cultural and/or sexual abusive tactics by one person to gain control over another. Regardless of its manifestation, signs of domestic violence in GLBT relationships need to be responded to with serious attention.
If you have concerns about your relationship, we can provide you with support -- helping you explore your situation, identify your options and make plans to stay safe. GMDVP is here to help the GLBT community and can be reached through our 24/7 hotline 800.832.1901.
GMDVP provides crisis intervention for victims and survivors of intimate partner abuse. The organization focuses on gay, bisexual and transgender intimate partner abuse, but works with anyone who is without services, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. GMDVP's offerings include education, advocacy, and direct services including a 24-hour hotline, an emergency safe-home and legal advocacy. GMDVP provides services throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. 24 hour hotline: 800.832.1901
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