GADSDEN COUNTY, FL (WTXL) - A Gadsden County woman has broken her silence after leaving what she calls and abusive relationship in hopes that others like her will get help.
Abrilla Couch is pregnant and expecting to give birth to a baby with special needs in October. She said she has been abused by a man she lived with for two years, but now, she is ready to get help.
"Honestly, I don't understand how I let this man get a hold of me like that," she said. "It was always 'I love him.' People were confused at why I was going around looking like I was -- black eyes, dealing with the things I was."
Couch stayed at a shelter for women for about 45 days, but that is the maximum time that someone can stay. She was offered relocation services, but she said her situation made that move impossible.
Gadsden County victim advocate Tia Thorpe said women are expected to shoulder their own cost of living after the 45 days.
"You would have to have a job or something once they help you move, but you would have to keep up the rent and the utilities and everything else that comes along with having a home," Thorpe said.
Couch said she had no choice but to go back to her boyfriend's house. In July, police reports stated that James Haga beat her again and sent texts threatening to kill her and her unborn baby.
"He made me feel...like I was nothing, and I couldn't do anything for myself. I couldn't work. I couldn't do anything," Couch said.
Haga, now in Gadsden County Jail, faces charges of aggravated battery and stalking.
Couch said it took a lot for her to finally press charges.
"It's a big step for me," she said, "and I'm proud of myself, because this is me taking my life back now."
Couch said that one day, she hopes to help other victims of domestic abuse. She said women often want to here from survivors, and she's willing to be a voice for them.
If you are a victim of abuse or know someone who needs help, call 1-800-962-2873 or visit the Florida Department of Children and Families here to submit a report.
Refuge House, a local organization that provides direct services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, can be contacted here.
