Denver police see ‘concerning’ increase in domestic violence cases

DENVER (KDVR) — Police are seeing a concerning increase in domestic violence crimes in Denver so far this year.

From the beginning of the year to Aug. 17, the Denver Police Department said domestic violence cases, which police also refer to as intimate partner abuse cases, have increased by 4% compared to the same period last year.

That increase amounts to nearly 200 additional cases this year, from 4,350 reported offenses during that period in 2023 to 4,549 this year.

“Any form of violence is unacceptable,” Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas said in a press release. “However, when it is at the hands of a loved one, it increases the complexity of the situation and creates challenges which members of the Denver Police Department and our partners are committed to help overcome. By reaching out for help, you may just save your life.”

Recognizing signs of abuse

The Denver Police Department notes that domestic violence and intimate partner abuse occur across all demographics. Police encourage the community to know the signs of abuse — DPD listed the following:

• The person appears fearful of their romantic partner
• Has unexplained and/or frequent bruising, cuts or other injuries
• Their partner is extremely jealous, controlling, belittling and/or isolating of their partner
• Cannot access their money and/or has little to no power in the relationship
• Has to constantly check in with their partner

What to do if you suspect someone is being abused

Police said that reporting intimate partner violence can save someone’s life.

If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, DPD said you can talk to them and let them know you are there to support them as needed . You can also help them find resources.

If the person is in immediate danger, police said to report the abuse by calling 911. If it is not an emergent situation, police said you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline for guidance.

“If someone hears screaming and/or what sounds like a struggle next door, DPD encourages them to immediately call 911, where they can remain anonymous. Also, victims are strongly encouraged to report abuse to police,” DPD said in a release.

The police department added that it does not check immigration status and has accessibility options for those who do not speak English.

Resources for domestic violence victims

DPD said the Rose Andom Center is a family justice center that provides victims with a wide range of community partners and resources for domestic violence help , including counseling, support and protection.

“The rise in domestic violence incidents is deeply concerning, but it also underscores the urgent need for accessible, comprehensive support for victims,” said Margaret Abrams, Executive Director of the Rose Andom Center. “Domestic violence impacts individuals across all walks of life, and the consequences can be devastating. Our goal at the Rose Andom Center is to ensure that every victim has the support and resources necessary to escape abuse and find safety. No one should have to face this alone.”

Victims can create a plan to leave their abuser, get help with a protection order, get medical care, and find resources for themselves and their children at the Rose Andom Center.

The Rose Andom Center lists these resources for domestic violence help on the website:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline – 800-799-7233
• SafeHouse Denver – 303-318-9989 (24 hour/7 days a week, crisis and shelter line)
• Make a report at your local po l ice station
• Rocky Mountain Crisis Partners – 844-493-8255 (24 hour/7 days a week)
• Suicide Prevention Hotline – 800-273-8255 (24 hour/7 days a week)
• Denver Health Medical Center Main Campus – 303-436-4949

There is also a list of shelter resources on the Rose Andom Center website .

The police department said victims can meet with DPD’s Domestic Violence Unit and the Denver District Attorney’s Office to learn how they can report abuse, and noted that there are services and information available whether or not a person chooses to report abuse to law enforcement.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 to help victims. The hotline can be reached by calling 800-799-7233 or texting BEGIN to 88788. There is also a live online chat option.

Colorado’s Domestic Violence Program has resources for community members and service providers on the website.

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