Report: Fewer domestic violence homicides in Wis.

MADISON, Wis. — A new report says the number of deaths involving domestic violence is down in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence says there were 37 homicides and 3 suicides in 2011. That compares with 51 homicides and seven suicides related to domestic violence in 2010.

Shannon Barry directs the Domestic Abuse Intervention Services in Dane County. Barry says it’s difficult to draw any conclusions about the lower number of deaths. But, Barry tells the State Journal (http://tinyurl.com/9ywc2cy ) she hopes it means victims are reaching out for services earlier and getting the help they need to leave an abusive situation.

A silent march around the state Capitol is planned for Monday in memory of those who died in domestic violence in 2011.