What does this measure?

The number of reports of domestic violence per 10,000 residents.

Why is this important?

Domestic violence has unique negative effects on victims and families. Domestic violence can cause serious and permanent emotional and psychological damage, which hurts one's quality of life and ability to contribute to society and perform at work.

How is our region performing?

In 2021, there were 33 reports of domestic violence per 10,000 residents in the Mid-Hudson Valley region, below the state (excluding NYC) rate of 43. The rate of reported domestic violence has decreased 10% since 2009, compared to a 6% decline at the state level. The rate grew only in Orange County, increasing 35%, while Greene and Putnam counties, had the highest rate of decreases (69% and 68%, respectively) since 2009.

The village of Goshen (101), New Windsor (89), and the cities of Middletown (70) and Port Jervis (130) from Orange, and the City of Poughkeepsie (70) from Dutchess had the highest rates of domestic violence in the region in 2021.

Notes about the data

The definition of domestic violence was significantly changed in 2008, making data from earlier years not comparable. The definition was expanded to include same-sex couples, ex-spouses and boyfriends/girlfriends. In addition, it was narrowed to exclude more specifically nonviolent incidents between partners.

As a rule, domestic violence tends to be underreported, and there are many inconsistencies in the data. In addition, reporting may be influenced by factors such as public education, outreach efforts and media stories. Comparable national data were not available.