Updated: 2/21/2009 9:32:35 PM Posted: 2/20/2009 5:18:03 PM
CLEVELAND -- Some call it the real face of domestic violence, while others argue that it's a photo that does more harm than good.
TMZ obtained the photo Thursday, showing the bruised face of singing star Rihanna, and by Friday morning, the picture was being circulated around the world. "There's a huge impact locally everybody's talking about it," said Timothy Boehnlein, Assistant Director of the Cleveland Domestic Violence Center. "It's this opportunity that we have to get information out there about the issue of domestic violence." Boehnlein said calls to the Domestic Violence Hotline (216-391-HELP) were expected to spike after Rihanna first went to the police two weeks ago, and that's a good thing. "We will see an increase in hotline calls and people talking about it and when people are talking about it, they might be seeking help," he said. "It's a great opportunity to begin the discussion." Staff members have already been referencing the photo in discussions at local high school and have been pleased with the response that students are aware of the dangers of domestic violence. "Help is out there through the police," Boehnlein said. "It's just unfortunate that this picture of Rihanna has been released. It does show the devastating effects of domestic violence and the victimization that people experience, but this photo getting out there is really a re-victimization of her."
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