Victim advocate reports uptick in violence, highlights recent state laws to strengthen child‑abuse penalties

Victim Advocate Kimberly Schroeppel told the council that the city’s caseload shows mixed trends this year but a worsening in severity: “it is an honor to assist residents on those calls,” she said, and reported domestic violence incidents at 145 (down from 167 in the same period in 2024) while assaults rose to 47 from 37. She provided additional year‑to‑date figures: sex offenses 37 (44 in 2024), DCFS cases 133 (126), fraud 76 (96), stalking and harassment 50 (47), and 12 death investigations year‑to‑date.

Schroeppel reviewed legislative changes affecting prosecutions and victim services. She highlighted SB‑24 (Child Abuse and Torture Amendment), which adds “torture” language and raises certain offenses to third‑degree felonies with longer mandatory minimums. Citing the district attorney’s office, the minutes record Salt Lake County DA Sam Gill saying, “As a result of passage of Senate Bill 24, for the first time now in the state of Utah, we will also be able to define an injury based on emotional and psychological abuse that children undergo. And as a result of that passage of that bill, we'll be able to, for the first time, hold offenders accountable.” Schroeppel also summarized HB‑358 (criminalizing certain online offenses against children, including material involving virtual avatars and AI‑fabricated images) and described Camp Hope, a county program to build resilience for child victims.

Schroeppel told the council Victim Services has provided information and resources to 615 people and civil/criminal justice assistance to 607 individuals so far in 2025. She urged continued attention to services and access for underserved populations, noting the program’s emphasis on language access and culturally appropriate outreach.