By Christina Nordvang Jensen
Nut graph
The past years there has been an increase in the number of reported domestic violence victims. The newest data from New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services shows a 25% increase.
In 2009 there was 25,761 cases reported in New York City. In 2013 the number was 32,324 which is 6,563 more reported incidences.
There can be a number of things that have caused the increase. One can be that more people are reporting domestic violence because of increased community awareness and support. Another can be that abuse incidents are increasing. It is difficult to tell with accuracy which of these factors is affecting the indicator and to what degree.
Law enforcement officials have said that a big reason for the increase was a 2008 change in law redefining what an intimate partner is.
This development is happening while New York City is unable to offer enough shelter beds and transitional apartments for victims of domestic violence.
From 2002 to 2009, the city added 628 beds for domestic violence victims and their children, according to data provided by the Human Resources Administration. Since then, New York City has added no beds or units.
Description and link to the data
The data is from New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. It shows the development in the number of reported domestic violence victims from 2009 to 2013.
Victim counts are reported for the following offenses: aggravated assault, simple assault, sex offenses, and violation of protective orders.
http://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/crimnet/ojsa/domestic-violence-data.html
Sources to contact:
New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV)
The nonprofit organization Sanctuary for Families. It helps victims of domestic violence and related forms of gender violence.
https://www.sanctuaryforfamilies.org
Safe Horizon – a victim assistance agency that provides support, prevent violence and promote justice for victims of crime and abuse, their families and communities.
Urban Resource Institute, one of New York City’s largest providers of services for victims of domestic violence victims and their families.