Despite the end of COVID-19 lockdowns, domestic violence rates across the country remain high, with concerning numbers of victims still being reported.
Three years after domestic violence rates reached record levels during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence remains concerned about the number of victims. A recent incident in Utah highlights the ongoing prevalence of this issue.
On September 1, Niki Sampson was found dead in her home in St. George. Her husband, Eric Larson Sampson, 50, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and second-degree aggravated assault with domestic violence. According to police, Sampson was the only other person inside the home at the time of his wife's death.
Domestic Violence Rates Remain Elevated Three Years After Pandemic Spike
Police discovered "suspicious bruising" on Niki Sampson's arms and face, indicating a history of physical altercations. A journal allegedly written by Niki Sampson revealed entries detailing her husband's aggressive behavior when drinking alcohol and expressed her fear for her life.
Eric Sampson initially provided false and inconsistent statements to police, admitting to alcohol consumption but denying causing the injuries. He also admitted to not calling 911 for 10 to 20 minutes after allegedly attempting to wake up his wife, raising questions about his actions.
Domestic Violence Rates Remain Elevated Three Years After Pandemic Spike
A third party called 911 after visiting the home and finding Niki Sampson unresponsive. Eric Sampson had been arrested in July for a previous domestic violence incident involving his wife, in which she reported being thrown on the bed and pinned down. He was released on the condition that he would not reoffend, but no protective order was issued.
In July 2022, Utah law enforcement agencies implemented mandatory lethality assessments for domestic violence cases involving intimate partners. Victims who respond affirmatively to certain questions are referred to local domestic violence centers for assistance.
Domestic Violence Rates Remain Elevated Three Years After Pandemic Spike
Susan Ertel, board president of the Dove Center, where domestic violence survivors are often referred, emphasizes the importance of reporting suspected cases. "If you think something's going on, can you please come check?" she urges. "If you're wrong, great. If you're right, you may have saved someone's life."
According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2021, 34% of female murder victims were killed by an intimate partner, compared to 6% of male victims. As authorities continue their investigation in the case of Niki Sampson, Eric Sampson remains incarcerated at the Purgatory Correctional Facility in Hurricane.
Domestic Violence Rates Remain Elevated Three Years After Pandemic Spike
The Utah case serves as a tragic reminder of the persistent problem of domestic violence and the need for continued vigilance in interrupting the cycle of violence. Victims are encouraged to seek help from trusted sources and report any instances of abuse to law enforcement.
