The Kansas City Police Department says domestic violence has played a role in a large number of homicides in Kansas City this year, and they, along with city leaders, are coming together to tackle the issue head-on. Since January 2025, there have been 12 domestic violence-related homicides, which accounts for one in three homicides this year. Domestic violence incidents can include partners, children or other family members. The 12 domestic violence-related homicides thus far this year match 2024's total for domestic violence-related homicides. In 2023, that number was at a recent high of 22. In 2022, there were only three recorded homicides tied to domestic violence. On Monday, KCPD Chief Stacey Graves, Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson and other city officials gathered alongside Mayor Quinton Lucas to talk about how the city is working to decrease the number of domestic violence crimes. Officials said that not all domestic violence cases make it to prosecution, and that needs to change. For some survivors, that means their cases never see a courtroom. The Jackson County Prosecutor's Office's new Crime Strategy Unit is focused on targeting repeat offenders to prevent future violence. Previously, the special victims unit was primarily in charge of monitoring domestic violence, but the Crime Strategy Unit can take a more proactive approach. Lucas hopes by taking new approaches and addressing systemic issues, domestic violence will decrease. "Making sure that the prosecutor, all of our community organizations are a part of this effort," Lucas said. "You heard about the Safe Haven program, where a victim of domestic violence can go to any fire station in Kansas City and frankly, just go somewhere to be safe. That is a key step." If you or a loved one is experiencing domestic violence, help is available in Kansas City. You can find a list of shelters and resources on the Kansas City Police Department website here.