In the state of Ohio a person can receive a more severe sentence for stealing cable television than for being a convicted, repeat domestic violence offender. The punishment for domestic violence is not strong enough to deter the abuser from repeatedly choosing to commit the crime. When domestic violence is exposed, the legal system should provide the tools to protect and prosecute. While other types of serious crime are declining, the incidence of domestic violence is continually occurring at an alarming rate. Some frightening statistics:  In 1997 the FBI reported the national average of murdered women by their intimate partner at 28%  1in 3 women will be assaulted by a domestic partner  Annually 3 million children are abused  Children who witness domestic violence are 40% more likely to be arrested for a violent crime We have a moral obligation to protect these children. The American Psychological Association states