Since February 18-th, Prescott Valley Police noted that domestic violence cases have significantly increased over the past year. Officials say reported offenses in 2020 increased by 158-cases or 45% over 2019 offenses. Experts estimate that only 30% to 50% of all domestic violence cases are reported to police and there are over 10-million cases annually in the US. The pandemic, job loss, financial loss, food insecurity, increased substance and alcohol abuse, and children out of school are some of the factors that played a part in the increase. If you or someone you know has experienced domestic violence, there are resources available to help including the Yavapai Family Advocacy Center, Stepping Stones and the Prescott Valley Police Victim Services Unit.
