Richmond Hill Hosts Domestic Violence Awareness Event With NYPD and Experts

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., hosted a Domestic Violence Awareness Month event on October 21, 2026, at the One Stop Community Center in Richmond Hill. The gathering combined a civic meeting with a public forum open to all residents. It was held in partnership with the Richmond Hill Block Association.

The event featured data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding the prevalence of intimate partner violence. The CDC reports that more than one in three women, approximately 43.5 million people, experience contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. The agency states that more than one in six men, about 20.7 million people, face similar experiences.

Detective Christopher Collyer and Detective Gary Jordan represented the NYPD Gender-Based Violence Policy and Training Unit. They explained that domestic violence affects anyone in a household and is not always physical. The officers noted that control often takes the form of financial or emotional abuse and isolation. They stated their role is to share information and connect victims to support resources, including advocacy groups and Family Justice Centers in each borough.

The detectives outlined several reporting options for victims. These include calling 911, making a report with patrol officers at home, visiting a local precinct, or requesting a specialized domestic violence investigator. They assured attendees that officers do not work with or report to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, addressing a common hesitation among those with immigration concerns. The officers also noted that victims can request an order of protection even if they do not want the abuser arrested.

Savarthi Chowdhury, a domestic violence advocate for the nonprofit Safe Horizon, discussed the organization's services. Safe Horizon helps people facing crises such as domestic violence and homelessness by offering shelter and support. Chowdhury said the group offers programs for all ages, including street outreach for children and support for the elderly. The organization provides practical help such as clothes and shelter and operates dedicated services for domestic violence victims.

Chowdhury emphasized that victims who may not feel comfortable speaking with the NYPD can reach out to Safe Horizon directly. The nonprofit offers a pathway for assistance with safety concerns and other issues for those seeking help outside the traditional law enforcement channel.

Dr. Coralanne Griffith-Hunt, a human, industrial, and trauma psychologist, served as the keynote speaker. She has served as deputy director of operations and a behavioral and mental health subject matter expert for the Biden-Harris administration. She also acts as a senior advisor to United Nations member states. Griffith-Hunt stated that human dignity and protection are not determined by socioeconomic status, education, or job standing.

Griffith-Hunt argued that abuse can affect anyone regardless of identity or background. She said men may be less likely to come forward because people dismiss or ridicule them. She emphasized the need for safe spaces where all victims can share. She clarified that domestic violence includes abuse between intimate partners and between other family or household members, including children and older or dependent adults. She described the dynamic as fundamentally about control.

Addabbo stated that domestic violence can happen to anyone and leaves lifelong impacts. He said, "Today we support survivors, provide access to services, and have an open and honest conversation." He noted that leaving can be the most dangerous moment, making safety planning and fast, accessible services important. Video clips from the event are available on Senator Addabbo's YouTube channel.