Edmonton police take on domestic abuse with graphic ads

Edmonton policeresponded to nearly 5,300cases of domestic violence between January and August 2012, almost one-third more than the sameperiod last year.

But police continue to believethe numbersreflect the growing number ofvictimsspeaking out.

"While these figures are troubling, they also underline a positive trendmore and more people, not only victims, but members of the communityare taking a stand against domestic violence and reporting these incidents to police," Staff Sgt. DarcyStrang said in a media release.

Police are hoping a campaign aroundtwo graphic commercialswill encourage more people to come forward in cases of abuse.

"These victims sometimes feel isolated and afraid to leave their abusive relationship, but they need to know that the police take the victims situation very seriously and can provide not only legal assistance but social support connections," said Strang.