In Le Murder Case Arrest, They Blame Workplace Violence

I read this in today's headlines:

"It is important to note that this is not about urban crime, university crime, domestic crime but an issue of workplace violence, which is becoming a growing concern around the country."

Workplace violence, including the bank robbery-motivated stalking, kidnapping and 14 hour hostage ordeal my daughter and I survived, makes up 18% of all violent crimes. It is a serious issue leaving many not only personally victimized but professionally as well. I lost my 13-year career and lived in a state of post-trauma for years following our ordeal.

Some questions that can be asked are: are employers doing enough? Could a more in-depth background check on the 24 year-old arrested reveal a previous sexually-motivated crime against a girl in high school? Should that have stopped them from hiring him to work with female students? Are they educating the entire school, staff and students, about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder? Events such as these leave many in a collective traumatic state. Will they do all they need to do in the aftermath to assist secondary victims of this horrific crime?

I am now a positive recovery and breakthrough expert, PTSD educator and advocate to help stop violence against women and girls. My second book, Hostage No More: 10 Keys to Breaking Free From Emotional Pain and Trauma, will be released soon. My debut book, Held Hostage, airs tomorrow as a Lifetime Movie Network film and depicts our terrifying ordeal and trauma in the aftermath.

I know from personal experience that the help needed immediately following an incident of workplace violence isn't always offered or available. I hope that not only will my books and film help to educate, inspire and empower other survivors but will shed some light on an issue that has gone too long under the radar.

Michelle Renee(www.michelle-renee.com) is available for interviews, panel discussions and speaking engagements.