CMPD working to create domestic violence victims center

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers say domestic violence is the biggest problem they encounter.

Officers say they respond to more than 35,000 domestic violence calls each year.

The Police Department is attempting a new strategy that has worked across the country,

Police, Safe Alliance and the district attorney are working to create a “Family Justice Center,” which has been successful in other cities.

All of the necessary agencies are in one room, and one of the benefits of the approach is that it keeps victims engaged, and abusers are less likely to get off the hook.

Most people don't realize the kind of legwork a victim has to go through to take full advantage of all the programs that can help them.

"They see greatly increased number of guilty pleas, a reduced number of jury trials, so it decreases the workload on the district attorneys office and it keeps victims engaged in prosecutions that has the direct result of holding abusers accountable,” Sgt. Craig Varnum, of the CMPD domestic violence division.

The plan was announced at CMPD’s weekly briefing, but it will take a while to implement.

Officials said it could take at least three years to get it up and running, and right now, they are still trying to determine the cost.

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