Felony domestic violence cases surge in Richmond, prompting call for Family Justice Center

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — City of Richmond leaders are raising the alarm over a troubling spike in felony domestic violence cases, which have already surpassed the city’s annual average, just halfway through the year.

During a mid-year crime briefing, Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards revealed the city typically reports around 45 felony domestic violence cases annually. As of June, that number has already climbed to 56.

City officials said the increase is not only alarming but a call to action, emphasizing that domestic violence is often a root cause of other forms of violence in the community.

Richmond Police releases mid-year crime update, highlights key concerns in Shockoe Bottom

To better support survivors, Richmond’s Commonwealth’s Attorney is advocating for the creation of a Family Justice Center — a centralized facility that would provide survivors with access to legal assistance, health care, emergency housing and advocacy services, all under one roof…

Story continues

TRENDING NOW

LATEST LOCAL NEWS