Domestic violence

Mrs Sang, a 37 years old mother with 4 children, had been a victim of domestic violence for many years. While the village and the local authorities knew and were sympathetic, they dared not intervene because it was regarded as a private family matter. Eventually Mrs Sang killed her abusive husband while he was trying to shoot her to death in their home.

Luckily for Mrs Sang the Cambodian Women's Crisis Centre was there for her. They found her children medical attention and accommodation and a lawyer for herself. They contacted the Human Rights NGOs and even advocated directly for her acquittal to the judge.

The judge sympathised with Mrs Sang and wanted to release her, but was unable to do so as the Cambodian Criminal Code does not acknowledge self-defence as a defence for murder. However, he only sentenced Mrs Sang to four years imprisonment, which is half the minimum sentence provided for by the law. Mrs Sang was very happy with such a short sentence.

Source

The CWCC are continuing to fight on her behalf. It is a great organisation. But imagine that - only four years for self-defense. It's amazing how the Cambodian Criminal Code can be tossed aside when the defendant is rich and powerful rather than a battered wife with four children.