Inter-governmental Task Force Announces the Launch of a Pilot Program to Identify and Support High Risk Domestic Violence Victims

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Pilot Program in Chicago’s 14th Police District Aims to Break the Cycle of Domestic ViolenceĀ 

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, the Chicago Police Department (CPD), and the Department of Family and Support Service (DFSS), partnering as an inter-governmental task force, announced today the launch of a pilot program to identify households at high risk for domestic violence incidents. CPD and service providers will elevate the response and support to those victims to offer additional assistance. The pilot will launch in Chicago’s 14thpolice district. Also present at the Association House for the press conference was Ald. Roberto Maldonado, (26th).

“For the first time, this program will give us the ability to more easily identify and offer assistance to the most vulnerable domestic violence victims in the city,” said Mayor Emanuel. “Everyone on the task force has a role to play in responding to domestic violence, but by working together to respond to our highest risk cases, we can all be more effective.”

CPD responds to approximately 200,000 domestic related calls for service annually or nearly 500 domestic calls each day. In 2013, there were more than 1,500 instances of aggravated domestic battery with a knife, gun or other dangerous weapon. Providing the best possible services for domestic violence victims and stopping this cycle of violence are major priorities for Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

It is essential that every Chicagoan actively seek to end domestic abuse of all types in the city. To report domestic abuse, call 9-1-1. For more information and support, anyone can call the domestic violence help line at 877-863-6338.