Leaders in Prince George’s County, Maryland, are joining forces to confront a troubling rise in domestic violence, a trend that has sharply increased even as most other categories of crime have declined in recent years. County officials say domestic violence—defined broadly to include harm between romantic partners, family members, and others within a household—has grown by approximately 30%, prompting a coordinated countywide response.
Council member Wanika Fisher emphasized the scale of the issue, noting that an estimated one in four county residents will be affected by domestic violence in some way, whether as victims, relatives, or close friends. She stressed that no one should feel unsafe in their own home, and that the county must do more to address the problem at its root.
To tackle the rise in cases, the county has launched an expansive task force unlike any previously formed. The new 24-member panel will include representatives from law enforcement, social services, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and even the development community. Fisher explained that the county’s current approach has been largely reactive—intervening only after a crime occurs. The new strategy aims to incorporate housing solutions, broader financial support, and wraparound services for victims long before they reach the courtroom.
Council member Krystal Oriadha, who has personally survived domestic violence, stated that abuse often involves more than physical harm. Verbal, psychological, and financial manipulation are commonly used to isolate victims, making it extremely difficult for them to leave an abusive household. Oriadha said many survivors lack the financial independence to secure housing, childcare, and basic necessities, which keeps them trapped.
Jeanette Brandon, founder of the nonprofit Together, We Can, echoed that observation. She explained that financial control remains one of the most powerful tools abusers use to restrict victims’ freedom. Many individuals seeking to escape have no income of their own, leaving them with few viable alternatives.
Denise McCain, director of the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center, added that these financial barriers often cause victims to return to their abusers. While the county offers counseling, legal aid, and other forms of immediate support, McCain noted that these efforts often act as short-term remedies rather than long-term solutions. Without true economic independence, many victims feel that they have no real options.
