Strangulation is one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence and correlates to an approximately 750 percent increased risk of homicide of the domestic violence victim by the offender. Many victims of strangulation exhibit no visible signs of injuries, but because of the physical trauma inflicted, they may sustain life-threatening internal injuries, including traumatic brain injury, damage to carotid arteries, stroke, and/or permanent visual impairment. Even when victims exhibit noticeable injuries associated with strangulation, the injuries may appear minor and limited to the area of the body where their abuser applied pressure.
The BREATHE (Breathing/Blood Flow Restriction Event: Advocacy, Treatment, Help, and Empowerment) Team provides a coordinated, trauma-informed response to victims of nonfatal strangulation and smothering in New Jersey. BREATHE Teams across the state bring together Forensic Nurse Examiners, law enforcement officers, and victim advocates to provide specialized medical care, preserve potential evidence, and connect survivors with supportive services. Forensic Nurse Examiners are specially trained to identify injuries that may not be immediately visible and to document and collect evidence that may support future investigation, criminal prosecution, and family court matters.
BREATHE Team Volunteers are on call 24/7 and each volunteer signs up for a minimum of one eight our shift per week; if called, the advocate will report to one of three hospitals in Union County or the police station, depending on where the survivor is currently located in order to support the survivor. Volunteers are specially trained advocates who play an important role in supporting survivors throughout the response process. Advocates provide compassionate, survivor-centered support, helping survivors understand available resources and services, assist with communication and referrals, and help ensure that the survivor’s needs, choices, and well-being remain at the center of the response. Critically, they connect victims to ongoing support through the YWCA and other community service partners.
