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.

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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.

“The goal is to lift the burden off victims -- and put it on the system,” officials said.

Advocates, including leaders from the YWCA, said the center could be transformative.

“If someone is fleeing a violent situation, there's emergency support available 24/7,” said Shawntee Winn, YWCA’s Senior Director. “You can call or text — we just want people to know help is here.”

A strategic planning process for the center is underway this month, and community feedback is being actively sought to ensure the Richmond community's needs are met.

"It's a community effort," Winn said. “We’re learning — and our best insights come from people on the ground who understand what survivors really need.”

The Family Justice Center has backing from the YWCA, Richmond Police and former Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney. However, it still requires funding to move forward.

Survivors of domestic violence seeking immediate assistance can contact the YWCA’s 24/7 hotline by calling or texting 804-612-6126.