Local

Orange Co. abuse victims speak out on 'flawed' system

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Domestic violence victims spoke publicly about their abuse stories at Orange County's Domestic Violence Commission.

They hope it will improve the way the community deals with the issue.

When a gunman opened fire on his ex-girlfriend's salon on Oct. 18, Andy Jimenez lost his mom, Gladys Cabrera.

His message Tuesday night at the Orange County Administration Building was that domestic violence can affect anyone.

"My mom went to the salon to get her hair cut, she did not know that the woman who owned the salon already had an ongoing dispute," Jimenez said.

Bradford Baumet was supposed to be in court for an injunction when he stormed the salon and opened fire on his ex-girlfriend Marcia Santiago.

The shooting happened in Seminole County, but everyone who testified tonight is hoping Orange County's Commission will improve the system for everyone.

Victims shared their heartbreaking stories in hopes of stopping domestic violence – and voiced their frustrations to help improve the justice system.

"He said, 'I am going to kill you,' and kept telling me over and over it was my day to die," said Holly, whose ex-husband attacked her.

Jennifer, whose ex-boyfriend attacked her, said she had a long, scary and confusing journey through a flawed legal system.

"I felt powerless, spending hours and hours in courtrooms," Jennifer said.

In 2011, 4,000 people filed domestic injunctions in Orange County alone.

It's a startling number commission members are keeping in mind as they explore ways to improve a victim's journey from the first 911 call to what happens after abusers are sentenced.

The commission will present its findings on May 3.