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

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

In the region around Gerbstedt, district of Mansfeld-Südharz, a terrifying incident causes a stir. On June 19, 2023, a 37-year-old entered his 32-year-old ex-girlfriend's house and attacked the 56-year-old mother of the woman with a knife. The man had apparently blamed the mother's separation. During the brutal attack, the woman suffered several deep stab wounds in the neck and chest area and had to be saved in an emergency operation in the hospital. The investigation in this case has now been completed and the perpetrator is now in custody. He is accused of attempted manslaughter and dangerous bodily harm, like that Mitteldeutsche Zeitung 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 questionable 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.

Law initiatives and solutions

Various legislative initiatives are necessary to act against increasing violence. Justice Minister Hubig plans the introduction of electronic ankle cuffs for violent offenders, a concept that already shows success in other countries. In addition, measures are discussed that provide for an obligation to participate in anti-violence training for perpetrators. The Federal Council has already approved a draft law that provides for better protective measures for victims - including an increase in the punishment 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, still so small, is a sign that something is wrong. Only through openness and support can we finally conclude this dark chapter in the history of our society.