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Congresswoman Frederica Wilson Announces Federal Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence Homicides in South Florida

Washington, DC, March 13, 2013
Today, U.S. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) applauded the U.S. Department of Justice for awarding new grants to South Florida to help reduce domestic violence homicides.

Today, U.S. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) applauded the U.S. Department of Justice for awarding new grants to South Florida to help reduce domestic violence homicides. The Domestic Violence Homicide Prevention Demonstration Initiative, created by the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women, helps state and local government reduce domestic violence homicides by identifying potential victims and monitoring high-risk offenders. An outspoken advocate against domestic violence, Congresswoman Wilson, who recently voted to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), issued the following statement:

“I am so pleased that the Justice Department has taken this proactive step to combat the problem of domestic violence homicides. I am particularly pleased to announce that the 24th Congressional District will receive a portion of the $2.3 Million grant. This is great news for South Florida,” said Congresswoman Wilson.

“Domestic violence resulting in homicide is a national emergency. Research shows that women whose partner threatens them with a gun or other weapon are 20 times more likely to subsequently be murdered than other abused women. Tragically, three women a day die as a result of domestic violence, with guns remaining the weapon of choice.

Good policy makes a difference. And we have seen real progress. Since the initial passage of VAWA in 1994, annual rates of domestic violence have dropped by 64% percent. I applaud President Obama, Vice President Biden, and Attorney General Holder for championing the cause of domestic violence. As a Member of Congress, I vow to continue to work to ensure the proper resources are made available to save lives.”

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U.S. Rep. Frederica S. Wilson is a second-term Congresswoman from Florida representing parts of Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward counties. A former state legislator and school principal, she is the founder of the 5000 Role Models for Excellence Project, a mentoring program for young males at risk of dropping out of school.