The surge in domestic abuse incidents in rural eastern Ontario’s Lanark and Renfrew counties has raised concerns among community organizations and law enforcement, based on recent data.
Erin Lee, the executive director of Lanark County Interval House, noted a rise in crisis calls reporting violent acts rather than general concerns, with the shelter receiving 3,000 calls last year, a significant increase compared to pre-pandemic years.
Across Ontario, reports of intimate partner violence have increased by 18.1% according to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), with 6,289 victims in 2024 compared to 5,326 in 2023.
Ottawa Police Service also reported a nine percent increase in reports over the past six months. Lee emphasized the growing awareness and discussions around domestic violence, highlighting improved collaboration between women’s shelters and law enforcement.
Despite progress, a majority of domestic abuse cases still go unreported, with 80% of victims not contacting police in 2019. In Lanark County, a survivor of domestic violence is now aiding in training police officers on handling such situations, emphasizing the importance of immediate support from community agencies.
The victim-centred approach taken by police in connecting survivors with support services has been praised by Lee, although she believes there is room for further enhancement in referral processes.
Education is viewed as a crucial tool in combating domestic violence, with efforts focused on teaching about healthy relationships from a young age and providing support for both victims and perpetrators. The community remains vigilant following past tragedies, such as the 2015 murders in Renfrew County, which resulted in recommendations for agencies and law enforcement to address intimate partner violence effectively.