Fighting domestic violence in Conn.

Hartford, Conn. (WTNH) - The shock of a domestic violence case that resulted in a murder suicide in West Haven last week has prompted a victim to step forward, Thursday, at the State Capitol to ask for weapons in the battle to fight an epidemic of domestic violence cases.

"Most people have no idea what it was like for that woman, trapped in her home with her husband, threatening to kill her and begging for her life; but I do," said domestic violence victim Nancy Tyler.

Tyler's husband, Richard Shenkman, is accused of kidnapping her, holding her hostage by handcuffing her in the basement and setting fire to the home they once shared in South Windsor back in July.

"I can imagine her last moments and I pray that none of you will ever be forced to live through moments like that," Tyler said.

She joined members of the Domestic Violence Task Force in pleading with lawmakers to approve what they said were more needed weapons in the battle to fight an epidemic of domestic violence cases.

The Task Force recommends several million of dollars in funding to increase the current seven to 16 full-time, 24 hour domestic violence shelters; a mandatory program of violence education in the schools; funding for immigrant survivor services; funds from the $20 marriage license surcharge be dedicated for these purposes; and that threatening a spouse with physical violence be a made serious crime.

"It's our position that those who threaten to commit a serious crime should be taken seriously and should not be allowed to benefit from a diversionary program which results in a dismissal, which means no criminal record," said Windham State's Attorney Patricia Froehlich.

"Ending a pattern, like this, takes a commitment and I'm here to plead with the legislature to make that commitment, to take a stand and to say that it stops here," Tyler said.

But the Governor is expected to propose more cuts in spending when she presents her budget one week from today.

Members of the Task Force say this is not the time to cut back on this.

You can take a look at the Task Force recommendations in deeper detail by clicking here .