Lake Oswego, Ore. – In an effort to protect families from a lethal form of domestic abuse, Clackamas County officials are launching a community‑wide education campaign on the dangers of strangulation. District Attorney John Wentworth said the county aims to become the national “gold standard” for how local agencies address domestic violence and sexual assault.
Why strangulation matters
Wentworth explained that survivors of strangulation are about seven times more likely to be murdered by the same partner. The injury often leaves few visible marks, making it easy for victims and first responders to miss the warning signs.
First‑responder role
Firefighter and paramedic Andrea Cadotte, who works for the Lake Oswego Fire Department, highlighted the unique position emergency crews have to intervene. “We listen, we assess, we document and we advocate,” Cadotte said. “That can make a meaningful difference in the victim’s medical care, and ultimately their pursuit of justice towards their abuser.”
Cadotte noted that only about half of strangulation victims show any external injuries, and of those, roughly three percent have injuries that can be photographed for a police report. This reality makes thorough questioning and careful documentation essential.
Real‑life impact
Last summer, Cadotte helped a woman who was experiencing domestic violence. Drawing on her own family experience, Cadotte built trust, saying, “I actually have experience with family members that have had domestic violence and have been in your situation.” The patient eventually agreed to go to the hospital, receiving the care she needed.
Cadotte emphasized that strangulation can cause internal damage that may not surface for hours or days. “Giving facts and giving them a reason to see that I am not pushing you to go to the hospital because I want to get somebody in trouble. I want you to go to the hospital so you can get care,” she explained.
Resources for victims
Wentworth pointed families and survivors toward the A Safe Place Family Justice Center in Oregon City, which offers counseling, legal assistance, and shelter for those escaping abuse. He urged anyone facing domestic violence or sexual assault to reach out for help without hesitation.
How the community can help
Both officials stressed that awareness starts with education. They encourage local schools, churches, and community groups to host informational sessions and distribute materials that describe the signs of strangulation and the steps to take if abuse is suspected.
By training first responders, improving documentation, and connecting victims with trusted resources, Clackamas County hopes to reduce the hidden toll of domestic strangulation and protect more families across the region.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
