By RACHEL C. DOVE

Staff Writer

WHARNCLIFFE - A Mingo County man with two previous convictions for acts of domestic violence continued his displays of violence toward women last week, as he reportedly struck his wife.

Kevin Wayne Browning, 30, of Wharncliffe, was placed under arrest by Mingo County Sheriff’s Department Sgt. A. Farra and Deputy K.E. Ball after a call was made to Mingo County 911 from the victim, Amy Browning, alleging that her husband had struck her in the face and left ear with his open hand.

The defendant had previously been found guilty and convicted on battery charges in November 2010 and May 2011, and served jail time on both offenses. He was arraigned before Magistrate Pam Newsome on the recent charge and remains free on bond, pending a court hearing.

According to the National Coalition to End Domestic Violence website, women who are the victims of domestic violence and choose to remain with the perpetrator more than triple their chances of having the abuse repeated. In many cases, the violence will escalate and intensify as time goes on, as the attacker develops a “no fear” philosophy because the abused female stayed with him and didn’t pursue legal action.

If you, a friend or family member are a victim of domestic violence, there are agencies in place to guide you through retaining an emergency protection officer against your attacker, assist with a safe location for you and your children to stay, obtain legal assistance, apply for housing and other state assistance, as well as many others services.

You are encouraged to report the crime to your local law enforcement agency including city police, sheriff’s departments and state police, who will start the legal wheels rolling to make the perpetrators responsible for their crimes, and assist the victims in their efforts to end the abuse and prevent future occurrences.