During a recent government meeting, the mayor's task force against domestic violence presented its 2023 annual report, highlighting alarming statistics and ongoing challenges in addressing domestic violence in Shawnee County. Becca Spielman, program director for the YWCA's Center for Safety and Empowerment, led the presentation, emphasizing the importance of the report coinciding with Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The report revealed over 21,100 flagged domestic violence calls in the community, with 1,314 arrests made. Notably, 9,123 instances were identified where individuals faced a high risk of homicide due to domestic violence. The task force reported 1,231 referrals to the district attorney's office and municipal court, with 910 cases filed. Additionally, there were 266 documented violations of protection orders, underscoring the complexities survivors face in seeking safety.

The report also highlighted the need for improved resources, noting that 98% of domestic violence cases involve financial abuse, which is prevalent across all socioeconomic levels. Spielman pointed out significant barriers to safety, including a lack of affordable housing and limited public transportation options, which exacerbate the challenges faced by victims.

The task force's collaborative approach includes partnerships with local law enforcement, health departments, and victim service providers, aiming to hold offenders accountable while ensuring the safety of victims. The report also provided insights into the geographic distribution of domestic violence incidents, revealing higher occurrences in areas with greater poverty and housing insecurity.

Overall, the findings call for a comprehensive response to domestic violence that addresses underlying social determinants of health, aiming to create a safer and more equitable community for all residents.