More than 2.5 million reports of child abuse and neglect are made every year in the United States. Abuse denies a child the opportunity to live an emotionally and physically healthy life – and has become a national issue. In California, more often than not, it becomes the dark reality of tabloid news.
In late July 2010, “Passion of the Christ” director Mel Gibson and his former girlfriend, Oksana Grigorivea, were involved in an alleged domestic dispute. Within days, the couple was being investigated by the Los Angeles Department of Child and Families Services (LA DCFS). Allegations had surfaced that Gibson, who has had a recent history of violent behavior, attacked Grigorieva while she was holding their infant child, Lucia.
In situations where a child could be harmed or at risk of harm, these types of investigations are to be expected. Children are victimized by familial strife and domestic violence, even if they are not direct victims of physical assault. Children who witness domestic violence have been found to eventually exhibit violent, risky or delinquent behavior. Additionally, children who are exposed to violence in the home may not develop adequate social skills and have difficulties learning.
While many think domestic violence is a social ill that impacts the poor, this is clearly a myth. Rich and famous people are perpetrators and victims of domestic violence as well. Before Mel Gibson, the media reported about other stars, such as Charlie Sheen, harming their spouses, girlfriends and children. Domestic violence and child abuse can affect everyone, regardless of economic status.
In August, Gibson and Grigorivea were cleared in the LA DCFS investigation and the case was closed. Agency investigators were not able to substantiate the allegations made by each party against the other regarding Lucia; however, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department is not precluded from conducting its own investigation of the incident. Additionally, the LA DCFS agency can initiate new investigations if new concerns arise within the Gibson/Grigorivea family.
Child maltreatment and domestic violence are growing problems in America and solving these overlapping ills will depend on consistent treatment of offenders and collaborative efforts by law enforcement, social services agencies and families. If you are a victim of domestic violence or have concerns related to child neglect, talk to an experienced family law attorney in your area who can help you get the protection that you need.