Texas Domestic Violence Homicides Have Nearly Doubled Since 2013

The number of Texas women who are shot and killed by an intimate partner has almost doubled over the past 10 years.

Last year, 205 domestic violence victims were killed in our state, the majority of which were by shooting. Domestic abusers under a protective order are not permitted to have a firearm under state and federal law, but some of those cases slip through the cracks. The Texas Council on Family Violence reported at least 20 cases that weren't properly handled, one of which, resulted in tragedy.

One of the major problems Texas is facing when it comes to domestic abuse is the lack of firearm accountability for those who are banned from using one due to a protective order. There is currently no statewide system that physically goes and removes weapons from the hands of abusers after they are given a protective order.

It's more like an honor system, and if I know anything about abusers, it's that they aren't typically the most trustworthy bunch. It's pretty much equivalent to giving a 3-year-old child some candy and then telling them NOT to eat it until you get back from the bathroom. Some may behave themselves. Others are less predictable.

Unfortunately, an abuser on a mission, with quick access to a firearm, and nobody around watching is...well...exponentially more serious than a kid sneaking a little candy. It's a recipe for disaster and a massive oversight by the powers that be to NOT immediately rectify the utter mishandling of some of the most vicious and psychotic offenders in Texas.

We've got to find a better way.

Another small note to keep in mind is that while a domestic abuse survivor in Texas knows their abuser isn't supposed to carry a firearm, they rarely get to see it implemented. They are simply left to wonder if their abuser remains a threat to their safety, cross their fingers, hope for the best, and prepare for the worst. What a horrible way to live.

What do you think the solution is? I'd love to hear from you in the comments or by email at Chrissy.Covington@townsquaremedia.com. You're welcome to tell me your story if you'd like. It might help someone who is still caught in a domestic violence situation and I'd like to revisit this topic with any tips or insight on the subject.

(I also want to add that I would never share your story or any other personal information in an article without your permission. I've got your back. I promise.)

Keep scrolling for more Texas topics in the galleries below, and please look out for your friends and family. Don't be afraid to ask someone if they need help. You just might save a life.

Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline if you need help now. 1-800-799-7233