JACKSONVILLE, Fla — For the 26th consecutive year, Hubbard House and partner organizations have released a Domestic Violence Fatality Review Report, in an effort to detect trends in local fatalities and promote systemic change. The release coincides with October’s recognition as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Often, society thinks of law enforcement in relation to offenders. We envision handcuffs, interview rooms, and jail cells. But a law enforcement officer plays a vital role in advocating for crime survivors and preventing future victimization. Perhaps in no field of law enforcement is that truer than in the enforcement and prevention of domestic violence. For so long, domestic abuse was considered a familial issue. Today, we recognize it for what it is: inexcusable violence for which there must be accountability,” says Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters.
In Duval County in 2022, there were 14 domestic violence homicide cases, which resulted in 17 homicide victims. Of the 14 domestic violence fatality cases, 11 specifically involved intimate partner relationships, which accounts for 14 of the homicide victims.
The trends found and analyzed in the Fatality Report include the use of firearms by abusers, co-habitation by the suspect and victim, and a history of domestic violence both within the relationship and by the suspect against prior partners.
“Domestic violence, and the too often tragic consequences, continues to affect households and families in every corner of our city. This Office, along with our greater community, must remain committed to seeking justice for victims and do our part to help families and loved ones heal in the aftermath of these crimes,” says Fourth Circuit State Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit Deputy Director ASA Khary O. Gaynor. The purpose of the Report is not only to analyze trends, but to recommend how to reduce lethal domestic violence in the future. “A common thread throughout the recommendations is that accessing help from organizations like Hubbard House can truly be life-saving. Survivors do not have to navigate abuse alone,” says Hubbard House CEO Dr. Gail A. Patin. Hubbard House is joined by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, 4th Circuit State Attorney’s Office, City of Jacksonville, and other key partners in releasing this Report and marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Survivors of domestic violence can access help through the 24/7 Hubbard House Hotline at (904) 354-3114 or Textline at (904) 210-3698. Survivors can also make an appointment or walk into the Hubbard House Outreach Center at 6629 Beach Blvd, Monday-Friday from 10AM-2PM. All Hubbard House services are free and confidential.
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