October marks the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and on Tuesday, local officials, law enforcement, and advocates gathered to confront what many described as a persistent and growing crisis.
Among them was a survivor who bravely shared her personal story, one that underscored both the devastation of abuse and the strength it takes to escape it.
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The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office revealed chilling statistics during the news conference. Duval County recorded 14 domestic violence homicides last year, resulting in 19 total deaths, including three murder-suicides. Firearms were involved in most of these tragic incidents.
So far this year, there have been 5,443 reported domestic violence cases in Duval County—slightly up from 5,344 cases this time last year. In 2023, the number was even higher, surpassing 6,000 reported incidents…