Rockford’s domestic violence rates rise; officials urge victims to speak up

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Domestic violence is high in Rockford, and officials are encouraging victims and survivors to speak out.

Domestic violence makes up 50.1% of violent crime in Rockford.

“It’s one of the biggest challenges facing our entire community on any given day. The ripple effects from the homes where this is happening into our community are palpable,” Jennifer Cacciapaglia said.

Cacciapaglia works as the Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Domestic and Community Violence Prevention.

She said she hears the pain, sees the fear, and understands the worries of victims

“They are hearing for days, weeks, months, and sometimes years that if they leave, their children will be harmed, so their effort to try to mitigate violence is always contemplating how to keep those people safe, too,” Cacciapaglia said.

While the percentage is high, Cacciapaglia said that is one of the reasons victims and survivors hesitate to report their cases. Another reason, she said, is the legal system.

“We are hoping nationwide and in our community is that there will be more of an understanding and integration into decisions and processes and recommendations in our courtrooms,” she said. “We hope it does everything it can to protect our children from harm.”

Rockford Police Sergeant Dave Nicosia said he wants victims to know that officers are on their side.

“I can guarantee you that our department is doing everything they can to build the case, and the State’s Attorney is taking it serious, too,” Sgt. Nicosia said.

Both Cacciapaglia and Nicosia said they are worried that there are several cases that go unreported. They said they will continue to encourage victims to reach out to the many resources in the area.

“This is hard,” Cacciapaglia said. “What you are experiencing is not your fault, and it is so very hard. You just don’t have to do it alone. Give us an opportunity to help you.”