Brutal attack in Gerbstedt: Ex-boyfriend attacks mother with knife!

Brutal attack in Gerbstedt: Ex-boyfriend attacks mother with knife!

In the region around Gerbstedt, Mansfeld-Südharz district, a frightening incident is causing a stir. On June 19, 2023, a 37-year-old broke into the home of his 32-year-old ex-girlfriend and attacked the woman's 56-year-old mother with a knife. The man apparently blamed his mother for the separation. During the brutal attack, the woman sustained several deep stab wounds to the neck and chest area and had to be rescued in an emergency operation in hospital. The investigation in this case has now been completed and the perpetrator is now in custody. He is accused of attempted manslaughter and grievous bodily harm Central German newspaper reported.

This incident is just another alarming example of the widespread violence against women, which has many faces in Germany. Domestic violence, particularly in personal and family environments, is a serious problem. According to Statista, in 2023 around 181,000 of a total of 256,000 victims of domestic violence will be women. A frightening statistic that shows that most victims - around 71 percent - are female. There are also shocking figures regarding intimate partner violence: around 79 percent of the 168,000 victims were also women. These violent attacks lack any humanity and often leave not only physical but also psychological scars that can last a lifetime. Further information is provided on this Statista.

The current situation in Germany

The alarming numbers don't stop. Statistics from the BKA show that someone in Germany is a victim of domestic violence every two minutes. The perpetrators are usually men, while women are the main victims. In 2024, according to forecasts, more than 265,000 people will be victims of physical, sexual or psychological violence by partners or relatives. This means an increase of around 4 percent compared to the previous year. The daily news has documented this worrying development.

A large proportion of these attacks are simple or dangerous physical injuries, with over 144,000 cases recorded in the statistics. There is a clear need for action in society: more and more women are seeking help and accepting offers of help such as the “Violence Against Women” helpline on 116 016. In 2023 there were around 86,700 contacts and 59,000 consultations. Nevertheless, the dark field remains larger than desired, because shame and feelings of guilt often mean that those affected do not have the courage to make their experiences public.

Legislative initiatives and solutions

In order to combat increasing violence against women, various legislative initiatives are necessary. Justice Minister Hubig is planning to introduce electronic ankle bracelets for violent criminals, a concept that is already showing success in other countries. Measures are also being discussed that require perpetrators to take part in anti-violence training. The Federal Council has already approved a bill that provides better protection measures for victims - including an increase in the penalty range for violations of the Violence Protection Act.

It is up to all of us to ensure an environment in which violence against women is not tolerated. Every incident, no matter how small, is a sign that something is wrong. Only through openness and support can we finally close this dark chapter in the history of our society.