SPRING HILL – When you think of Domestic Violence Shelters, you think of a safe place for women and children to escape violent environments. You would never consider a violent incident occurring inside the very place they are seeking refuge.

According to officials, four women who currently reside inside the Dawn Center, a local Domestic Violence Shelter, became involved in a verbal disturbance that eventually turned violent.  We will only use the first names of those involved, to protect their full identity.

Last Thursday. Danielle called the Sheriff’s Office to report a battery. Danielle says co-resident Selina wanted to touch a baby that Danielle was holding, but she refused because Selina “usually drinks alcoholic beverages.” Danielle says Selina grabbed her left wrist to try and touch the baby against her will, so Danielle pulled away – injuring her wrist in the process.  Danielle reported the incident to Dawn Center Staff and requested EMS to respond to the scene. Danielle was transported to the hospital for evaluation.

Deputies who arrived on the scene interviewed Danielle and she provided a written statement of what occurred. Deputies also interviewed Shannon, who says she was also part of the altercation. Shannon stated that she tried to intervene while Danielle and Selina were arguing but Selina told her to “Stay out of my business.” Selina then shoved Shannon in the chest and walked downstairs. Shannon says she followed Selina and observed her shove another resident, Jericho, several times. To stop the shoving, Jericho slapped Selina in the face.

Staff members say they did not witness most of the altercation, but they did observe Jericho slap Selina in the face. Selina says she is tired of being bullied and picked on my Shannon and Jericho.

Deputies did detect the strong odor of alcohol emitting from Selina but says she did not appear to be overly intoxicated.   

Although all of the residents live together in the same facility, this incident was not considered “domestic” according to officials; therefore, no arrests were made, due to conflicting statements, lack of evidence, and no independent witnesses. 

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ™2014 Real News Real Fast, Inc.