A rural area shelter directors say domestic violence impacts people in upscale families, and professionals but many are fearful to speak up because they don't want it to impact their social status or careers.

Due to a growing backlog in pending domestic violence cases, Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said Thursday he plans to ask the commissioners court for additional resources and staffing. Since the coronavirus pandemic began, experts have been concerned about an increase in domestic violence incidents and shelters have seen an increase in demand. The first dashboard shows the number of incoming family violence and sexual assault cases comparing September 2019 to September 2020. The second dashboard shows the increase in pending cases since March 16, when the pandemic led to a pause in jury trials. A local domestic violence symposium kicked off Thursday in an effort to help the public recognize red flags for domestic violence and how they can help.