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Recent Domestic Violence Deaths Highlight Critical Need for Victim Support Services as Reports Surge Past 1,300 in 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — In the wake of two devastating domestic violence deaths in our community and over 1,300 domestic violence reports in Sioux Falls this year alone, The Compass Center calls attention to the urgent need for sustained funding and support for domestic violence prevention and victim services. These tragic losses underscore a disturbing trend of increasing intimate partner violence in our region, even as resources for vital support services diminish.
The recent deaths of Carie Coyle, 49, and Samantha Koehne, 38, represent more than statistics – they are a stark reminder of the lethal nature of domestic violence and the critical importance of intervention services. In both cases, there were documented histories of abuse and threats, highlighting the escalating nature of domestic violence and the vital importance of early intervention.
“Sometimes leaving the relationship can be more dangerous for the individual than actually staying in that relationship,” explains Briana Halse, Director of Clinical Services at The Compass Center. “Finances can also be such a barrier to leave a situation. There are also the barriers of having pets or children where they ask would it be safer to be in the home with my children rather than having a split home.”
The Compass Center emphasizes the importance of comprehensive safety planning for those considering leaving an abusive situation. Halse outlines crucial safety measures that can make a difference:
- Maintaining a full tank of gas
- Strategic parking practices, such as backing into spots for quick exits
- Establishing code words with trusted contacts
- Securing important documents
- Setting up alternative mailing addresses when necessary
These practical steps are part of the broader support services The Compass Center provides, including:
- Individualized safety planning assistance for victims fleeing abuse
- Crisis counseling and long-term healing support
- Advocacy for protection orders and support during court proceedings
- Prevention education programs
Sam Clemens with the Sioux Falls Police Department notes that domestic violence calls rarely represent first-time incidents: “Very rarely when police are called to domestics, is that the first time that it’s happened. A lot of the time this happens repeatedly and there’s really a cycle that happens with that. We’re trying to break that cycle.”
In the case of Samantha Koehne, court records show her alleged killer had a previous domestic abuse conviction involving her and was released from prison just last year. This tragic progression emphasizes the critical need for consistent support services and prevention education to break the cycle of violence before it escalates to lethal levels.
“It’s very important to look into a safety plan,” Halse adds. “There are online versions of those that can give ideas to victims that they may not have ever thought about before, but also the Compass Center accepts individuals who walk in if they want to create one of those with our advocates.”
The Compass Center served over 1,000 community members last year alone, but the need continues to grow. Research shows that access to advocacy services significantly increases survivors’ ability to escape abuse and rebuild their lives safely.
“We’re calling on our community leaders and stakeholders to recognize that domestic violence services are not optional – they are essential, life-saving resources,” says Michelle Trent, Executive Director of The Compass Center. “With adequate funding and support, we can help prevent these tragic losses and provide vital assistance to those seeking to escape violent situations.”
Those experiencing domestic violence can reach The Compass Center’s 24/7 crisis hotline at 1-877-IN-CRISIS. Walk-in services are also available for those seeking to create safety plans or access other support services.
To learn more about supporting domestic violence prevention and victim services in our community, please contact The Compass Center at 605-339-0116 or visit www.thecompasscenter.org.