Many people fail to recognize children as victims of domestic violence.  In the City of Sacramento, juveniles are exposed to this type of violence in approximately 29% of the reported domestic violence cases.  Many more cases go unreported. 

Most parents are not aware of how domestic violence profoundly affects their children.  Studies have shown that children raised around domestic violence develop mental health problems at a higher rate than children that are actually direct victims of physical abuse. Also alarming are statistics revealing that a boy from a home where his mother is battered is 74% more likely to commit violence.

The Sacramento Police Department is working with community partners to try and spread awareness for these silent victims.  We have created a pamphlet to educate the community on these victims of domestic violence and would like to encourage neighbors, family, and friends to share this pamphlet with others.  The pamphlet can be located at http://www.sacpd.org/besafe/pubguides/.

On July 28, 2009, at 10:15 a.m., a press conference will be held at Police Headquarters, 5770 Freeport Blvd., addressing this important topic.  Present at the press conference will be medical experts, community partners, domestic violence advocates, and law enforcement personnel.  The media is encouraged to arrive by 10:00 a.m.