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Abstract: 

Can domestic violence homicides be dramatically reduced—and if so, how? In this compelling case study, Casey Gwinn and Gael Strack trace the four-decade evolution of San Diego’s nationally recognized response to domestic violence, from early prosecutorial reforms and coordinated community response efforts to the creation of the nation’s first Family Justice Center. Combining personal narrative, policy history, and homicide data, the authors argue that collaboration among prosecutors, police, advocates, health professionals, and community organizations can save lives. At a time when domestic violence homicides are rising nationally, the “San Diego Story” offers an urgent and provocative model for communities seeking evidence-based strategies to improve victim safety and offender accountability.

Keywords: Domestic Violence Homicide; Family Justice Centers; Coordinated Community Response; Victim Safety; Strangulation Prevention; Offender Accountability

Affiliations:  1: Alliance for HOPE Intl; 2: Alliance for HOPE.