Mayor Adams, NYPD Launch Nation’s Largest Domestic Violence Investigative Unit

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New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch have announced the creation of the largest domestic violence investigative unit in the United States, aimed at strengthening support for survivors, enhancing officer training, and ensuring justice for victims of domestic abuse.

The new NYPD Domestic Violence Unit, which will deploy about 450 dedicated investigators across all precincts, marks a major reform in how domestic violence cases are handled.

The specialized officers will be part of the NYPD Detective Bureau and trained to manage cases from complaint to prosecution using a trauma-informed, survivor-focused approach.

Mayor Adams, who spoke passionately about his personal experience growing up in a home affected by domestic violence, described the initiative as a “holistic and full-frontal” response to an issue that has too often been minimized.

“Everyone deserves to be safe on the street, in their homes, and in their relationships,” Adams said. “We are making a promise to domestic violence victims that your city will do everything possible to break the cycle of violence.”

The mayor also highlighted disturbing trends, including a 29 percent increase in intimate partner violence last year and the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. He emphasized the city’s commitment to tackling the problem through coordinated efforts involving law enforcement, prosecutors, and community organizations.

Commissioner Tisch noted that domestic violence remains a major driver of felony assaults in New York City, accounting for nearly 40 percent of such cases.

“These investigations require care, compassion, and the full attention they demand,” Tisch said. “Now, from complaint through prosecution, one team of investigators will handle these cases. This is a survivor-centric approach with one goal — survivor safety.”

Under the new structure, every domestic violence investigator will receive enhanced training on trauma-informed interviewing, working with children as witnesses, and understanding culturally specific dynamics. Dedicated warrant teams will also prioritize arrests of domestic violence offenders, while new civilian roles — including a Director of Prevention and Intervention and a Domestic Violence Counsel — will guide training and coordination with district attorneys.

Maureen Curtis, Vice President of Safe Horizon, praised the initiative as a significant step forward for both law enforcement and survivors.

“The move of domestic violence officers to the Detective Bureau raises their stature and recognizes their critical work,” Curtis said. “When survivors are seen and supported, families and communities are safer.”

The announcement comes as part of the city’s broader strategy to combat gender-based violence and ensure public safety within homes — reinforcing Mayor Adams’ message that “public safety is not just about our streets and subways, but also what happens inside our households.”