Augusta, Ga. — A woman who narrowly escaped a brutal attack by her estranged husband is raising concerns about the slow pace of the legal system’s protective order process, which she believes failed to protect her when it mattered most. Matilyn Ward recounted the traumatic events of February 2022 when her estranged husband, Frank Ward, forced his way into her home, threatened her life, and fired gunshots during a violent confrontation.
Weeks prior to the assault, Matilyn had reported threats made by Frank Ward to local authorities. However, when deputies suggested she seek a temporary protective order, she felt the requirement to spend a night in a shelter was unnecessary. “I was not living with him; I owned my home,” she said, questioning the lack of expedited measures for individuals facing immediate danger.
According to attorney Lisa Diefenderfer, obtaining a domestic violence protective order in Georgia can be a challenging process. Victims must provide evidence of violence, such as assault or stalking, and secure testimony from witnesses to support their claims. The law mandates that a full hearing should occur within 30 days after the petition is filed, but delays can complicate matters for survivors. “A protective order can help keep an abuser away from a victim’s home and job,” Diefenderfer added.
On the night of the incident, Matilyn was jolted awake by her husband’s footsteps. When she called out, he ominously declared, “Today is the day. I told you – you were gonna die.” As he doused her in gasoline and demanded access to her phone, Matilyn managed to dial 911, a move that may have saved her life. Law enforcement quickly apprehended Frank Ward and discovered the couple’s infant daughter safe in another room.
Following the assault, Frank Ward received a 20-year prison sentence—a verdict Matilyn found disappointing. “What else did they need to see? My dead body?” she expressed. The Georgia Parole Board has confirmed that he will be eligible for parole in 2048, prompting her to vow to advocate against his release. “If he is free, other women are at risk. Our community is at risk,” she warned.
Matilyn hopes her harrowing experience will inspire other women in similar situations to recognize their worth. “God has a plan bigger than we can imagine,” she said, urging victims to seek help and believe in their strength. As she continues to navigate the aftermath of her ordeal, Matilyn remains committed to raising awareness about domestic violence and advocating for systems that better protect those in danger. For anyone in need of support, help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting “START” to 88788.