When headlines fade, survivors are often left with the aftermath. In this episode of 1 in 3, Ingrid speaks with Norma Peterson, Executive Director of Document the Abuse, about what really happens behind high-profile domestic violence cases—and how abuse often escalates when someone tries to leave.
Using lessons learned from the disappearance of Stacy Peterson, Norma explains how control, isolation, and intimidation evolve quietly, long before the public ever notices. We explore the legal concept of forfeiture by wrongdoing, which allows a victim’s documented words to be used when they can no longer speak for themselves.
Norma introduces the Evidentiary Abuse Affidavit (EAA)—a secure, off-device digital documentation tool that allows survivors to safely store photos, texts, emails, and timelines without alerting an abuser. We discuss safety features like quick exits, save-in-progress options, and why notarization can strengthen legal credibility—while emphasizing that documentation alone is a powerful act of protection.
We also honor the legacy of advocate Susan Murphy Milano, whose foresight shaped survivor-centered documentation used today by law enforcement, prosecutors, and medical teams. From QR-code access points to youth-focused protections, this conversation highlights how early documentation can save lives.
If your instincts tell you something isn’t right, documenting the pattern may be the safest next step.
Resources mentioned:
• Document the Abuse
• loveisrespect.org
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Norma’s links:
https://www.1in3podcast.com/guests/norma-peterson/
https://www.instagram.com/documenttheabuse
https://www.youtube.com/@documenttheabuse
https://www.linkedin.com/company/documenttheabuse/
https://www.facebook.com/DocumentTheAbuse
1 in 3 is intended for mature audiences. Episodes contain explicit content and may be triggering to some.
If you are in the United States and need help right now, call the national domestic violence hotline at 800-799-7233 or text the word “start” to 88788.
Contact 1 in 3:
Thank you for listening!
Cover art by Laura Swift Dahlke
Music by Tim Crowe
