Domestic violence (DV)is defined as violence from any family member toward another, often to exhibit power and control over the victim. Family members include (but are not limited to): spouses, former spouses, grandparents, parents who have children in common regardless of marital status, adults who live in the same household, as well as parents and children.
In the eyes of most citizens, the family, or a long-term, monogamous relationship, is the central unit of life in society. It is expected that this unit will steer a common, agreed-upon path for all lives involved, especially for children. When these groups suffer disputes that lead to bodily harm or serious emotional and psychological damage, that common path is likely to be destroyed.
According to the National Institute of Justice, between 1,000 and 1,600 women die annually as a result of domestic violence inflicted by male partners. Additionally, many men and children are victims of domestic violence; more commonly, however, the victims are women abused by male partners.
Domestic violence offenses also bring societal costs, some of them long-term, in the form of counseling services, homelessness, remedial education, and burdens on the justice system, leading to possible incarceration. Monitoring and reviewing cases of domestic violence and domestic violence-related deaths can help identify and create policies to address the issue, criminal justice intervention strategies, and victim protection services.
This indicator measures the number of reported domestic violence offenses that occur annually for every 1,000 residents in Walla Walla County. The domestic violence offense rate per 1,000 residents is also offered. Washington State is offered as a benchmark. Additional information, including the actual number of reported domestic violence offenses in Washington State, can be found in the “Download Data” section.