Domestic

Florida Governor Signs Legislation to Protect Children from Exploitation and Combat Domestic Violence, Inspired by Gabby Petito’s Tragic Story

by

ST. PETERSBURG, Florida — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a series of bills on Wednesday aimed at protecting children from exploitation and online predators, as well as a domestic violence bill inspired by the tragic killing of Gabby Petito. During a news conference in St. Petersburg, DeSantis signed five pieces of legislation. One of the bills, referred to as the “Gabby Petito Act” or SB 1224, requires law enforcement officers investigating domestic violence incidents to administer a lethality assessment under certain circumstances. The assessment involves asking a series of questions to determine if the victim … Read more

Alabama Circuit Judge Shot and Seriously Injured in Domestic Incident: Suspect in Custody

by

Montgomery, Alabama – Montgomery County Circuit Judge Johnny Hardwick was shot and critically injured on Saturday afternoon during a domestic incident. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the news, stating that law enforcement officers swiftly arrived at the scene and apprehended a suspect within an hour. The suspect in custody is identified as Khalfani Hardwick, the 36-year-old son of Judge Johnny Hardwick who was previously on trial for attempted murder. Khalfani Hardwick ultimately pleaded guilty to the charges in 2017. Assistant Chief Deputy Wesley Richerson stated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing, and … Read more

Montgomery Judge Seriously Injured in Domestic Incident, Son in Custody with Pending Charges

by

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Montgomery Circuit Judge Johnny Hardwick suffered serious injuries in a domestic incident, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. His son, Khalfani Hardwick, 36, has been placed under arrest with pending charges. Khalfani Hardwick previously pleaded guilty to a second-degree assault charge in 2014, but did not serve any prison time. However, details regarding the current incident are currently unavailable. The circumstances surrounding Judge Hardwick’s injuries and the motive behind the incident remain under investigation. Authorities are working diligently to gather all necessary information to determine what unfolded. This incident has raised … Read more

New D.C. Law Removes Waiting Period for Divorce, Empowering Survivors of Domestic Violence

by

Washington, D.C. – A recent change to divorce laws in D.C. aims to provide more support for survivors of domestic violence by eliminating the waiting period before divorce. Advocates for victims of domestic violence pushed for this change, arguing that it will help those looking to separate from an abusive spouse. Previously, D.C. law required couples to live separately for six months, with mutual and voluntary agreement, before they could file for divorce. If one party contested the divorce, the couple had to remain married for a year. However, under the new law, any spouse … Read more