Startling news is being released about the rate at which Alabama women are murdered by men. The study compiled from FBI homicide statistics shows the rate in Alabama is the third highest in the nation.

Domestic violence is an all too common occurrence in most states, but here in Alabama too many of those incidents are leading to murder. Some of the cases are disturbing.

Every year more than four million women are abused by their partners. Most of the women involved in abusive relationships, live to see the next fight, but in Alabama, more of those cases end in death than in other states.

Captain Larry Draughon with the Dothan Police Department said, "Women suffer and sometimes don't want to face the alternative because the partner causing the violence is the sole source of income and they have children, but there are now organizations to help.”

The House of Ruth is a non-profit organization reaching out to women like this to give them a safe haven while they break the cycle of abuse.

Karen Boyd with the House of Ruth said, “Domestic violence is about power and control and the offender will do whatever it takes."

In 2007, more than 1,000 cases of domestic violence were reported. The number of victims living in silence is estimated to be much higher.

The number of domestic violence cases in Houston County may seem high, but legislation within the past few years has had a significant impact.

Captain Draughon said, "Thanks to lobbying, they now have laws that enable us to take action no matter what the victim says. In the case where there's evidence that leads us to believe there are domestic violence issues."

Both the victim and accuser are now subpoenaed to court to bring the abuser to justice; the enforcement of the law has already helped to reduce the number of reported domestic violence cases.

While it may seem like there is no way out of a violent relationship, thanks to organizations like the House of Ruth, it's never too late to get out.

If you are looking to get out of a domestic violence situation you can contact the House of Ruth. Their number is 793-2232.