The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition is advocating for modest funding from lawmakers to support domestic violence service providers and give prosecutors more tools to pursue charges against abusers. One funding request aims to provide $1.4 million to domestic violence shelters and service providers, while another seeks $260,000 annually to help police departments commission forensic medical exams in cases involving strangulation. Data shows that non-fatal strangulation is a significant indicator of lethal relationships.
The funding for these exams has led to more perpetrators being charged and successful prosecutions. These exams not only provide crucial evidence for prosecutors but also offer important health care services to victims, as strangulation can have lasting health impacts. Lawmakers are being asked to allocate $260,000, with fundraising covering the rest, due to budget constraints. Despite financial challenges, the program has shown significant benefits in holding perpetrators accountable and reducing domestic violence homicides. The funding request comes as referrals for domestic violence service providers have surged, with a new report revealing trends in intimate partner violence incidents in Utah.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
