AUGUSTA, Ga. — A woman who survived a harrowing attack by her estranged husband is raising concerns about the inefficiencies in the legal system that delayed her access to protective measures before the incident. Matilyn Ward’s experience underscores the potential dangers faced by those who report domestic violence.
In February 2022, Ward faced a traumatic situation when her estranged husband, Frank Ward, broke into her home. He not only threatened her life but also doused her with gasoline. According to body camera footage from responding deputies, the chilling moments of that night illuminate the urgency she felt for greater protective measures in domestic violence cases.
Before the violent encounter, Ward had alerted the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office of her husband’s threats. However, she found herself trapped in a cumbersome legal process for securing a protective order. “I was told I had to stay overnight at Safe Homes, which I didn’t feel was necessary at that time,” she explained. Living independently, she believed she was safe in her home.
Legal experts emphasize that obtaining domestic violence protective orders in Georgia can be a lengthy process. Attorney Lisa Diefenderfer noted that victims must demonstrate proof of threats or violence, often requiring witness testimonies. While the law mandates a hearing within 30 days of filing, the wait can be accompanied by anxiety and fear for one’s safety.
Recalling the night of the attack, Ward awoke to her husband’s menacing voice. “He said, ‘Today is the day. I told you – you were gonna die,’” she shared. Acting swiftly, she dialed 911 while struggling to evade her husband’s grasp. When deputies arrived, they not only arrested Frank Ward but also found the couple’s infant daughter unharmed, alleviating her fears for the child’s safety.
Nearly three years later, a judge sentenced Frank Ward to 20 years in prison for his actions, a term that Matilyn believes is insufficient. “What else did they need? My dead body?” she questioned, expressing frustration over the leniency of his sentence. The Georgia Parole Board has confirmed that he will be eligible for parole in 2048, prompting Ward to vow to advocate for continued incarceration. “Our community is at risk if he is released,” she warned.
Now, Ward hopes her ordeal can inspire and empower others facing similar struggles. She encourages women to recognize their worth and emphasizes, “God has a plan bigger than you could imagine.” Through her advocacy, she aspires to shed light on the systemic failures that allow domestic violence to thrive and to help others break free from cycles of abuse.
For individuals experiencing similar crises, resources are available through hotlines like the National Domestic Violence Hotline, where they can find support and guidance.