The death of Lori Gellatly, a young mother from Oxford, marks Connecticut’s 6th homicide stemming from intimate partner violence since January 1, 2014 and comes less than three weeks after another domestic violence homicide in New Britain.
State Police are reporting that Lori’s estranged husband, Scott Gellatly, shot and killed her. The victim’s mother who was in the home at the time was also shot and is currently listed in serious condition at a local hospital.
It appears that a judge had recently issued an ex parte restraining order with a hearing to be held (Thursday, May 8).
Ex parte orders are temporary orders put in place for two weeks until a hearing is held to consider a full permanent one-year restraining order.
While Connecticut prohibits anyone who is the subject of a full one-year restraining order from possessing a firearm, there are no prohibitions tied to an ex parte order.
According to Karen Jarmoc, Executive Director of Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, this most recent tragedy highlights once again the need for more stringent state and federal policy around ex parte orders and measures to keep victims safe.
“Of greatest concern is the fact that the period immediately following a victim’s application for a restraining order is the most dangerous time. This unique circumstance calls for enhanced measures to immediately remove guns from individuals who allegedly exhibit violent behavior toward their intimate partner, most notably in the instance of an ex parte order.”
Jarmoc added, “If a judge sees fit to issue such an order due to the threat or existence of violence, there does exist cause for policies to remove any guns in the two-week interim.”
There are warning signs of abusive relationships and risk factors that indicate increased danger.
Possession of a gun, threats with a weapon and a recent break-up or separation are three top indicators.
It is incumbent upon all of us to learn what to look for as we seek to keep victims safe and hold offenders accountable for their actions.
“We are saddened by the death of Lori Gellatly and ask that everyone take a moment to learn from this tragedy and understand the signs of domestic violence and red flags for risk factors which indicate that violence may turn fatal,” said Jarmoc. “Anyone experiencing controlling or abusive behavior by a partner can call the statewide, toll free hotline at 888 – 774-29000 to receive free and confidential services.”
Connecticut has averaged 14 homicides stemming from domestic partner violence each year over the past decade.
The 2013 Connecticut Domestic Violence Family Review Committee Report issued in July indicates a need for increased training across sectors to understand “red flag” indicators that may occur. To learn more about the report, go to www.ctcadv.org
Working with a certified domestic violence counselor is a strong protective factor against domestic violence homicide. Connecticut’s 18 domestic violence organizations invite anyone who believes that they may be a victim of domestic violence or who knows someone that may be a victim of domestic violence to call the 24 hour, toll-free, statewide domestic violence hotline at 888.774.2900 to speak with your local domestic violence agency.
In Oxford, individuals can call The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services directly at 203.736.9944.
