This front page has been a long time in the making.
This morning, news stands across Victoria were filled with copies of a newspaper that read: “Killing Fields At Home.”
News Corp tabloid Herald Sun boldly covered its Thursday issue with the faces of four women who died at the hands of their partners: Rekiah O’Donnell, Sharnee Ngatai, Suzi Oghia and Cathy Browning.
The accompanying article contained a call to action from the family of Ms O’Donnell — a 22-year-old girl shot at point blank range by her abusive partner, Nelson Lai.
Mr Lai was found guilty yesterday not or murder but of manslaughter — despite the court hearing that Lai had previously attacked and threatened Ms O’Donnell, even telling her on one occasion: “My mission will be complete when you’re gone, slut.”
“Our justice system favours the guilty and forgets the victims,” Rekiah’s brother told media. “We need to spread the word about domestic violence. Not enough is being done.”
And he’s right.
Read about that shocking verdict: He threatened her, he shot her in the head. But he’s not guilty of her murder.
At the current rate, two women each week are dying at the hands of a man.
That means every three and a half days, on average, a cover exactly like the Herald Sun‘s should really be published — as a reminder that women aren’t safe, they are dying in their homes, and that justice is all too rarely served when those killings come before the courts.
Thank you for bringing this important issue to the front and centre of your news coverage today, Herald Sun.
The following women have also lost their lives in circumstances where they should have felt safe. Some of these matters are still before the courts, meaning their alleged murderers have not yet been convicted:
Do you have a news tip? Email us at news@mamamia.com.au.
Read more:
NSW Labor MP tells her own experience of domestic violence.
One young mother says it’s time to reform domestic violence law.
Let’s change the way we tackle domestic violence.
A guide to winners and losers in the federal budget.
Waleed Aly slams government for not spending more on protecting women from domestic violence.
Top Comments
Carlie Sinclair, found murdered after 18 months missing, her fiancé was charged with her murder.
(Pictured middle)
I followed this story. Her poor little boy, growing up without his mummy. This epidemic of domestic violence needs to end.
I don't understand how that is not premeditated murder...