Domestic Violence Statistics in Ventura County

How many domestic violence calls are made in Ventura County?

Allegations of domestic violence can be devastating. That is why Ridley Defense is here for you and your family during such difficult times. Dedicated to your well-being and future, our primary goal is to help you achieve a favorable outcome in your case. If you have been accused of domestic violence, contact Attorney Doug Ridley, experienced and compassionate criminal defense attorney. In this article, we outline the most recent data regarding domestic violence calls and charges in Ventura county.

The California Department of Justice tracks data on crime activity throughout the State. From 2009-2018 Ventura County experienced a yearly average of 7,200 domestic violence-related calls for assistance. The vast majority of cases did not involve the use of a weapon. The data shows that when a weapon was involved, the most common was a "personal weapon." The California Department of Justice defines a personal weapon as the use of "hands, feet, etc."

Data Collection Requirements for Domestic Violence – Penal Code 13730

California Penal Code 13730 requires law enforcement to produce a record of domestic violence-related calls. They must submit information on whether the alleged incident involved weapons or if it involved strangulation or suffocation. All domestic violence-related calls require a written report that includes:

• Whether officers observed that the alleged offender was under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance
• Whether officers had previously responded to domestic violence-related calls at the same address involving the same parties
• Whether officers had to inquire if a firearm or other deadly weapon was present at the location. The officers must also make note if a party disclosed the presence of a weapon after inquiry. California law requires that an officer confiscate a firearm or other deadly weapon located at the scene of a domestic violence incident.
• Whether there were “indications that the incident involved strangulation or suffocation.”

Ventura County Domestic Violence Data

According to the most recent data available, Ventura County received 6,815 domestic violence-related calls over the course of 2018. Of those calls, 6,573 did not involve the use of a weapon. When a weapon was used the breakdown was as follows:

• 5 calls involved the use of a firearm
• 21 calls involved the use of a knife or cutting instrument
• 35 calls involved the use of some “other dangerous weapon”
• 181 calls involved the use of a personal weapon
• 159 calls alleged strangulation or suffocation

Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Ventura? Call Ridley Defense.

At Ridley Defense, we understand that domestic violence charges can affect every aspect of your life, including your career, your custody rights, and your freedom. We are here to help you put the pieces back together. Our focus is on protecting you and your family. 

Doug Ridley is a former prosecutor who is well-respected throughout the courts. He is a leader in the legal community and will help guide you through this challenging process. Call Ridley Defense today for a complimentary consultation at 805.208.1866. Remember, it is never too early to retain legal services, but it can be too late. Attorney Ridley and his team of experienced defense attorneys work with the prosecutor and judge to get you the best possible outcome in your case. Call today to get started.