Denver Supports Those Experiencing Domestic Violence

Denver Supports Those Experiencing Domestic Violence

Published on October 01, 2026

DENVER - Thursday, October 1, 2026 - Today, in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, Denver District Attorney John Walsh, Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas, Executive Director of the Rose Andom Center, Whitney Woods, Survivors DPD Detective Amanda Grodman and Cecily Riney gathered to discuss the importance of domestic violence awareness, support for victims and information on resources.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month, recognized nationally each October, creates an opportunity to increase understanding of domestic violence, uplift survivor voices, remember those whose lives have been lost, and encourage communities to take action. The "One Mile Closer to Hope" annual walk serves as a visible reminder that domestic violence affects the entire community and that everyone has a role to play in supporting survivors.

"Each step we take during the Domestic Violence Awareness Walk represents our shared commitment to a future where every survivor is believed, supported and safe. This walk brings survivors, advocates and community members together not only to raise awareness, but to make it clear that no one should have to navigate violence alone. When Denver stands together, we move one mile closer to hope-and closer to ending domestic violence in our community," said Whitney Phillips Woods, Executive Director, Rose Andom Center.

What to know:

• Domestic violence (DV), also known as intimate partner violence (IPV), is defined as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking and psychological aggression by a current or former intimate partner
• According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, intimate partner violence alone affects more than 12 million people every year.
• In 2025, the Rose Andom Center served 1,861 clients, a 25.6% increase from the 1,482 clients served in 2024 and continuing significant year-over-year growth in demand for RAC services
• In 2025, 3,756 cases were assigned to the Denver Police Domestic Violence Unit
• 411 strangulation cases were filed by the District Attorney's Office in 2025
  • With the recently announced new Strangulation Response Protocol, the number of filed cases is expected to increase

"Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us that domestic violence touches every community and that we all have a responsibility to stand with those affected and work to prevent abuse. Domestic violence is never the survivor's fault, and anyone experiencing abuse deserves to know that help is available. I'm deeply committed to this work and proud to once again join the Rose Andom Center and the dedicated advocates who work every day to help survivors find safety, support, and a path forward," said Phil Weiser, Colorado Attorney General.

Celebrating its 10-year-anniversary, the Rose Andom Center operates as a family justice model and centralized location where victims of domestic violence and their children can access a comprehensive range of services to include access to advocates, receive medical attention, fill out restraining orders, obtain information and support on how to leave their abuser, and more.

"Domestic violence can take many forms. For me, I knew that the way I was being treated was not right, but I did not understand what it was or know that it had a name: domestic violence," said Denver Police Detective Amanda Grodman. "That is why it is so important to continue raising awareness about intimate partner abuse, and I have since made it my mission to help others - especially our youth - so they can recognize relationship red flags, understand dangerous behaviors, and know that resources are available to support them and their safety."

Additionally, the Denver Police Department has a specialized domestic violence investigative unit housed at the Rose Andom Center which works with the Denver District and City Attorney Offices. These law enforcement partners recognize the complexity of intimate partner violence and work to hold abusers accountable. If someone is experiencing abuse, they are encouraged to contact Denver Police by texting or calling 911 in the event of an emergency or 720-913-2000 for non-emergencies. The Denver Police Department does not inquire about immigration status when responding to the call or investigating the case.

"It may seem counterintuitive for a police department to say this, but if you need help getting out of your unhealthy relationship, you do not have to call police," said Chief Thomas. "We want you to receive the best help for your situation and ask that you reach out to the Rose Andom Center or any of their partners, and if you do want us to get involved, we have a dedicated team of investigators ready to assist you."

Throughout October, DPD will share information about resources and agencies who are able to help survivors at www.facebook.com/DenverPolice. Additionally, information about domestic violence myths, red flag behaviors and more can be found at denvergov.org/domesticviolence.

"Even as crime overall has dropped, domestic violence has remained stubbornly and tragically high, making it a top priority for the Denver District Attorney's Office. That means working with community partners to prevent domestic violence and support survivors - and enforcing the law to hold offenders accountable," said Denver District Attorney John Walsh. "We walked today in support of all those who have suffered as a result of domestic violence and in solidarity with survivors and with our incredible partners at the Rose Andom Center and other community groups."

The following partners are helping Denver "shine a light" on the importance of bringing awareness to intimate partner violence by illuminating the following buildings in purple the first week of October:

• Denver City and County Building
• Ellie Caulkins Opera House at the Denver Performing Arts Complex
• Buell Theatre at Denver Performing Arts Complex
• McNichols Civic Center Building
• Ball Arena (only Oct. 6)
• Meow Wolf - new this year!

Today's press conference recording is available by request to [email protected].

• Police Department