Regarding the apparent domestic violence murder/suicide of Amber & Jeffrey Arruda

CONTACT: Sara Molinaro, RICADV: (401) 467-9940, Cell: (732) 546-1162

“Our hearts go out to the children, family, friends and community of Amber & Jeffrey Arruda. We are horrified and saddened by this apparent act of domestic violence. Their tragic deaths are a harsh reminder that we still have a long way to go to achieve a society free of domestic violence in Rhode Island. Our hearts break for the sons of the Arruda family, who will be forever impacted by losing both of their parents to domestic violence at such a young age.”

“Though not much has yet been released about the deaths of the Arrudas, the laws in Rhode Island are clear. Any act of violence between intimate partners in our state is classified as domestic violence under law. This tragedy reminds us that while not all domestic violence is reported, there is always a history. Victims often experience months or years of emotional, physical or sexual abuse at the hands of their intimate partner without ever having called the police.”

“It is not surprising to us when neighbors or co-workers are shocked that such a horrible thing could happen in their community. However, we know that domestic violence does not discriminate. It happens in all 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island and crosses every race, ethnicity, income bracket, age-range and education level. Furthermore, abusers often show a very different face to the outside world than they do to their victims.”

“The deaths of the Arrudas also remind us of the extreme dangers that guns can bring to a home. Exactly 50 percent of the domestic violence deaths in Rhode Island since 1980 have been caused by firearms. The presence of firearms greatly increases the danger not just for domestic violence victims, but also for bystanders – of the 31 domestic violence attacks on record resulting in multiple deaths, only 4 of those were not committed with guns.”

“We know that one of the most dangerous times for domestic violence victims is when they decide to leave the relationship. However, help is available in our state for all victims, and with services we hope that lives can be saved. There are six local domestic violence agencies in our state that provide a wide array of services, including 24 hour hotline support, emergency shelter, support groups and assistance with the legal system. If you or someone you know needs support, call the statewide Helpline at 800-494-8100.”

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