NOBLE, Okla. (KFOR) — Jillian Howard says she's been a victim of domestic violence since she was a child, and wants other victims know they're not alone.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, and Howard wanted to share her story with News 4.
She's now 30-years-old and has a son of her own.
Howard says she was recently attacked by her father in the living room of their home.
"I think the first time something ever happened, I was maybe seven or eight," says Howard.
Howard says the graphic video has been sent to Noble Police and the video is now part of their investigation.
"He started grabbing by my foot, dragging me off the bed and into the living room and then kicking me," says Howard.
Her son was in the same room while she was being abused.
Court records detail Howards father being arrested August 6. However, Howard says he's now released.
"I went and filed a VPO [Victim Protective Order], so that was emergency granted," said Howard.
Her alleged abuser only faces misdemeanor charges.
News 4 called the Cleveland County District Attorney's Office to see why the charge is only a misdemeanor with such graphic video evidence.
Cleveland County District Attorney's office told News 4 they have not yet received the video from the Noble Police Department.
News 4 also tried calling Howard's father and could not reach him.
Going forward, Howard says she's hoping for better days as her son continues to get older.
"Once we moved out, he started doing better in school and everything," says Howard.
She also wants to encourage other victims of domestic violence to find their inner strength and to make the best decision for you and your family.
