'People who love you don’t put their hands on you' — Survivors and law enforcement team up to combat domestic violence

SALT LAKE CITY — Domestic violence remains the leading cause of homicide in Utah, and law enforcement agencies across the Salt Lake Valley are taking action. According to the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, 51% of homicides between January 2023 and January 2025 were linked to domestic violence. In response, officials gathered today to raise awareness and reinforce their commitment to enhanced training and prevention.

A unified front against abuse

At a press conference held at the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, District Attorney Sim Gill emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing domestic violence. “We all need to be part of the solution,” Gill said. "It's not about the numbers or the data, it's really about individuals who find themselves in violent and abusive relationships." Representatives from multiple law enforcement agencies stood in solidarity, highlighting their efforts to improve response protocols and investigative practices. Lt. Adrian Montelongo, head of investigations at the South Jordan Police Department, said officers are committed to thorough investigations—not only in domestic violence cases but also in sexual assault. “Law enforcement remains committed to very thorough investigations,” Montelongo said. "It affects everyone in the family. It affects everyone in our communities. These situations are often tense, and they can be confusing."

A tragic reminder

The urgency of this issue was underscored by a devastating incident on Aug. 17, when a domestic violence call in Tremonton led to the deaths of Officer Eric Estrada and Sergeant Lee Sorensen. The tragedy continues to reverberate throughout the community.

Survivor speaks out

One survivor, Alicia, shared her story during the event. She escaped an abusive marriage after realizing the promises of change were empty. “I was married to a man who I thought would keep me safe. I needed a way out,” Alicia said. “Each time he got upset, I walked on eggshells and watched what I said out of fear of what could happen.” Her message was clear: “People who love you don’t put their hands on you.”

Training and funding

Thanks to a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, the District Attorney’s Office has conducted 65 training sessions for detectives across the valley. These sessions aim to improve how officers respond, and investigate domestic violence cases.

The numbers

According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, 14% of adults in Utah have reported being physically hurt by an intimate partner. The FBI and state data confirm that domestic violence is the leading cause of homicide in the state.

What’s next

As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, purple ribbons and lights are being displayed across Utah to honor victims and survivors. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available.

Related:  Domestic violence advocates worry as Utah lawmakers’ budget doesn’t fund strangulation exams

Domestic violence resources

If you or someone you know is going through abuse, help is available.

• The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition operates a confidential statewide, 24-hour domestic abuse hotline at 1-800-897-LINK (5465).
• Resources are also available online at the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition website.
• YWCA Women in Jeopardy program: 801-537-8600
• Utah's statewide child abuse and neglect hotline: 1-855-323-DCFS (3237)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

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