Advocate condemns attorney comments in W.Va. abuse case - WVVA TV Bluefield Beckley WV News, Weather and Sports

Advocate condemns attorney comments in W.Va. abuse case

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LEROY, W.Va. (AP) -- An advocate for West Virginia domestic violence victims worries that a lawyer's comments in a high-profile abuse case may discourage people from helping those who are being mistreated.

Sue Julian of the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence says Peter Lizon is entitled to an aggressive defense. He is preparing for his first hearing Friday in the alleged decade-long torture of his wife, Stephanie.

But Julian says his attorney's remarks could discourage victims of abuse from seeking help -- and could make bystanders think twice about offering it.

Defense attorney Shawn Bayliss was in court Thursday morning and didn't immediately comment. He has said that the allegations against his client are "blatantly false" and distorted.

Julian says attorneys often use the media to discredit and humiliate victims and programs that help them.

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