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.
-
Nearly 4 dozen people welcomed as new American citizens at Indy Airport
Nearly four dozen people were welcomed as new American citizens at the Indianapolis International Airport on Tuesday.
Lottery scam victim sent multiple $6,000 payments to stranger in Indianapolis
A lottery scam is making the rounds with Indiana ties and it’s costing victims thousands of dollars.
Comedian Shane Gillis will bring tour to Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Comedian Shane Gillis is bringing his Shane Gillis Live tour to Indianapolis. On Saturday, April 5, 2025, Gillis will make a stop at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
16-year-old dies in Hendricks County crash
A 16-year-old is dead after a single-vehicle crash near Pittsboro in Hendricks County Monday morning.
