Parsons Police Department Launches Domestic Violence Unit: A Commitment to Protect and Support Victims

Date Posted: 01/08/2025

Kansas is no stranger to domestic violence. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation's (KBI) 2023 Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Sexual Assault publication paints a harrowing picture of the state of domestic violence in Kansas[1]. The report reveals that a domestic violence incident is reported every 23 minutes, and a domestic violence murder occurs every 11 days, 9 hours, 45 minutes, and 43 seconds. Over the past 19 years, the number of reported domestic violence incidents has increased from 18,042 in 2004 to 22,847 in 2023 (Kansas Bureau of Investigation, 2023). While the numbers fluctuate, the trend is clear: domestic violence continues to be a pressing issue statewide.

In Parsons, the trend mirrors the state's increase. From 146 incidents in 2021 to 203 in 2023, (Kansas Bureau of Investigation, 2023) the city has seen a significant rise in domestic violence reports. The Parsons Police Department recognized the urgency of addressing this crisis and took decisive action by applying for the Federal Byrne State Crisis Intervention Grant in February 2023. The two-year grant, awarded for fiscal years 2024-2026, provided funding to establish the Parsons Domestic Violence Unit (DVU), which officially opened on September 1, 2024.

A Dedicated Unit to Combat Domestic Violence

In 2024, the Parsons Police Department responded to 149 domestic violence calls, of which 116 were misdemeanors, 28 were felonies, and 5 were unspecified incidents. Since September the DVU has been available to reach out and follow up on over 43 cases although not all victims want to accept help it is important that every victim knows what is available to them and their family, and that there is always help to be given. You do not have to walk alone.

The Parsons Domestic Violence Unit (DVU) operates from a secure, undisclosed location away from the police headquarters building to ensure the privacy and safety of victims. This innovative approach allows victims to seek help in a safe environment while staying connected to vital resources

Detective Tony Adamson, who leads the unit, focuses on investigating domestic-related cases. His responsibilities include conducting interviews, executing search warrants, collecting evidence, and presenting cases to the Labette County Attorney's Office for felonies and to the Parsons City Prosecutor for misdemeanor cases. Detective Adamson also spearheads community awareness initiatives, including the Silent Witness Project.

"Our mission goes beyond arrests and prosecutions. It's about empowering victims, educating the public, and working toward a community free from domestic violence," Detective Adamson said. The Silent Witness Project, an international initiative, uses life-sized wooden silhouettes to represent individuals killed during domestic violence incidents. Each cutout tells the story of a victim and provides information about the abuser's sentencing. The project debuted in Parsons at the Police Department's Public Safety Fair, where it left a profound impact on attendees. Plans are underway to display the project in various community locations throughout 2025.

Supporting Victims Every Step of the Way

Victim Advocate Coordinator Cyprus Jones is an integral part of the DVU, providing hands-on support to survivors. Since the unit's opening, Jones has worked with 24 victims, helping them file protection-from-abuse (PFA) orders, coordinating with Safehouse advocates, and assisting with security measures like installing cameras.

"Victims often feel isolated and powerless," Jones shared. "Our role is to remind them they're not alone. We're here to guide them through the process, whether it's attending court hearings, connecting them to resources, or simply being someone, they can trust." In addition to individual support, Jones has participated in community outreach efforts, giving presentations to local organizations like the Kiwanis and neighborhood groups.

Jones also highlighted the importance of ongoing communication with victims. "Building trust takes time, but it's essential. Even after the immediate crisis, we stay in touch to ensure they feel supported every step of the way."

Educating the Community

Lieutenant Sherri McGuire, a strong advocate for community education, collaborated with Jones and Adamson to raise awareness about domestic violence. In 2024, they presented to neighborhood groups and civic organizations, receiving positive feedback from attendees.

"Domestic violence affects everyone-families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. Education is a key part of prevention. The more we can teach people to recognize the signs and offer support, the more lives we can save," Lt. McGuire stated.

The DVU plans to expand its outreach efforts in 2025, partnering with additional organizations to host workshops and events aimed at educating the public about domestic violence and available resources.

By the Numbers: Domestic Violence in Parsons

The year 2024 saw a total of 149 domestic violence calls in Parsons. These incidents were broken down as follows:

January: 9 calls
February: 5 calls
March: 14 calls
April: 10 calls
May: 19 calls
June: 14 calls
July: 16 calls
August: 19 calls
September: 12 calls
October: 14 calls
November: 8 calls
December: 9 calls

These numbers reflect the ongoing challenge of addressing domestic violence and the importance of having dedicated resources like the DVU to respond effectively.

The Path Forward

The Parsons Police Department is committed to making a lasting impact through the Domestic Violence Unit. By addressing the issue on multiple fronts-law enforcement, victim support, and community education-the DVU aims to reduce the prevalence of domestic violence in Parsons and beyond.

The DVU is funded through a federal grant through 2025. In order to sustain the program, the police department has requested it be included in the funding goal for a future ½ cent public safety sales tax. This tax would also support the School Resource Officer program and provide resources for training and to retain experienced police officers with salaries that would be competitive in our region.

The Silent Witness Project, outreach presentations, and victim assistance services all play a role in this mission. As Detective Adamson, Jones, and Lt. McGuire continue their work, the Parsons community is taking important steps toward breaking the cycle of violence and creating a safer, more supportive environment for all.

For more information about the Parsons Domestic Violence Unit or to schedule a presentation, please contact the Parsons Police Department. If your organization/business has a large area such as a lobby and you would like to have the Silent Witness Project display, you can learn more about that opportunity by contacting the police department at 620-421-7060. Together, we can stand against domestic violence and support survivors in reclaiming their lives.

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References:
KBI. (2023). 2023 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, STALKING, AND SEXUAL ASSAULT IN KANSAS. KBI - Kansas Bureau of Investigation - statistics - domestic violence and rape statistics. https://www.kansas.gov/kbi/stats/stats_dvrape.shtml

[1] 2023 Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Sexual Assault publication is the most recent publication published by KBI on domestic violence in Kansas.