The latest crime data released for New York City shows a troubling rise in domestic violence homicides. According to a report from the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence, there were 71 domestic violence homicide deaths in New York in 2022, marking an increase of nearly 15% from the previous year. In that same period, domestic violence homicides involving intimate partners saw a nearly 30% jump. On a broader scale, between 2010 and 2022, there were a total of 854 domestic violence homicides in the city.
The report highlights racial and gender disparities within these cases, with Black and Hispanic women disproportionately affected as victims. Saloni Sethi, the office’s acting commissioner, pointed out that systems in place often have built-in bias and inequity that affect outcomes for different groups.
Sethi also discussed the importance of prevention education and uplifting healthy behaviors in relationships. She emphasized the need for holding individuals accountable for causing harm and providing tools to change behavior. Funding for these initiatives is crucial, and while budget cuts have impacted some efforts, the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence has been fortunate enough to maintain and even expand funding for key programs.
For those in need of support, the office offers free walk-in services at five family justice centers located across all five boroughs, regardless of immigration status or language spoken. In addition, a domestic violence hotline (1-800-621-HOPE or 1-800-4673) can provide confidential support and information to those who may be unsure about their situation. The office’s website also offers resources and guidance for individuals who may be experiencing signs or red flags of domestic violence.
As the data indicates a lack of improvement in 2023, the office continues to focus on reaching individuals who may not traditionally seek assistance, while emphasizing that help is available and individuals are not alone in their experiences.
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