As the COVID restrictions ease gradually in Illinois, the number of domestic abuse cases are beginning to go through the roof.

That is what Jennifer Tolladay at DeWitt County DOVE tells Regional Radio News and indicates it was not unexpected.

Tolladay encourages anyone enduring an abusive situation to do anything they can to escape and find help. The DOVE 24/7 hotline is 217-935-6072 or their office line is 217-935-6619.

Tolladay says it can take a victim anywhere from seven to ten attempts to permanently escape their abuser.