INDIANAPOLIS — Data from IMPD shows cases assigned to the Domestic Violence Unit are less than they were in 2021, but advocates say more work needs to be done.
Danyette Smith is a survivor of domestic violence who currently works as Indianapolis' first Director of Domestic Violence. The position was created in response to an increase in calls and cases over the past two years.
Smith says her position is more important now than ever before.
"Just because we see that slight decrease does not mean it's over. That could definitely mean it's just the beginning," Smith said. "We just want to make sure that as those calls decrease, it's because our victims and survivors are getting those services needed and not because they're afraid to call IMPD."
From January 1, 2021 through April 20, 2021, the domestic violence unit was assigned 1,759 cases. In that same time frame in 2022, the unit has been assigned 1,551 cases.
“The problem is not going away. It is still here," Sgt. David Lindsey with the IMPD Domestic Violence Unit said. “I think it’s part of law enforcement and as far as our city working together to have that relationship to where when people need help, they need to know that we are here to help them.”
Smith is creating a team of three advocates for the Champions Program for Domestic Violence Prevention. It will connect victims and survivors with existing community resources, serve as ‘boots on the ground’ and partner with IMPD.
"We want to make sure that our city knows that we have a program that is being built that is really about to be pushed out into the community and be there directly for them," Smith said.
Smith hopes the team will be fully in place by the end of May.
For those who want to connect with the program, call 317-210-0671.
If you need help immediately, you can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
You can contact them through their website, by calling 1-800-799-7233 or texting "start" to 88788. The website also has a live chat option.
-
I-465 NB reopens after semi-fire caused 5-hour closure near East 71st Street
A semitruck fire on the northeast side of Indianapolis has shut down part of I-465 during the Friday morning rush.
Construction season kicks off in Indianapolis, neighbors ready for repairs
Road construction season has arrived in Indianapolis, and one project was being welcomed with open arms.
US fires on and disables 2 more Iranian tankers as tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz
The U.S. military says its forces fired on and disabled two Iranian oil tankers after exchanging fire with Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz overnight
Bigger NCAA tournaments mean bigger brackets, too
The NCAA will expand its Division I basketball tournaments from 68 to 76 teams next season. The change isn't expected to radically disrupt the familiar bracket for most casual fans.
