USAO-KS wears purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

KANSAS CITY, KAN. - The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Kansas (USAO-KS) is proud to join the U.S. Department of Justice, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), and communities across the country in observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October. We reaffirm our dedication to using every available resource and building strategic partnerships with local law enforcement, fellow prosecutors, and victim service organizations to ensure justice, safety, and healing for victims.

"As a society, we must rid ourselves of the dangerous belief that domestic violence is a private family matter. These volatile situations threaten not only victims but also relatives, friends, neighbors, and the law enforcement officers who respond," said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. "According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, in 2025 alone, 97 Kansas police officers were injured and two were killed while responding to domestic violence calls. These tragedies underscore the profound impact this crime has on our entire community."

Each year, DVAM gives us an opportunity to focus on our collective responsibility to address domestic violence and emphasize the importance of collective action.

• Domestic violence-focused collaborations with local organizations, including law enforcement, prosecutors, victim service providers, healthcare providers, etc.
• OVW grant funding to local organizations, including Tribes and law enforcement-reach out to Erica Lacy for assistance, if needed.
• U.S. Attorney's role in enforcing federal laws related to domestic violence, including federal firearm prohibitions protecting victims of domestic violence.

USAO-KS employees donned purple clothing during the month of October. Purple symbolizes survivors who were hurt by physical and emotional abuse but still go on to thrive and live a life free of violence. By raising awareness about domestic violence during DVAM, we can bring everyone together to end the abuse. We encourage all who live in our jurisdiction to learn more about domestic violence and take meaningful action to support friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors who may be affected. Victims deserve safety, dignity, and justice. By understanding the signs of abuse and connecting victims to resources, we can all play a role in creating safer communities.

We are committed to prosecuting those who violate federal laws, collaborating with local law enforcement and prosecutors, and ensuring victims have access to the resources they need. Together, we can bring hope to those in need and build a future free from domestic violence. For more information on domestic violence or to access resources, please visit the OVW webpage on Domestic Violence.

The Department of Justice funds essential victim services through its grantmaking. Grantees of OVW and the Department's Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) run programs that support victims in the aftermath of domestic violence. There is help available, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and the Strong Hearts Native Helpline, 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483). In addition, OVW's Resources for Victims and Survivors webpage lists national hotlines as well as state, territorial, and Tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions that provide resources and support.

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