June 8, 2024

In a heartfelt effort to prioritize the safety and well-being of Jackson County residents, Legislator Abarca introduced and passed Ordinance #5547 relating to petty offense and domestic assault in Jackson County.

With a shared vision of fostering a community where individuals are secured, protected, and happy, both Legislature Abarca and the Jackson County legislature embarked on a collaborative journey to enact this ordinance. This legislation creates a petty offense for Jackson County and a possibility for bond provisions on petty offenses in domestic abuse cases. It aims to improve the existing framework and to provide more protection and support for survivors.

There is an undeniable link between domestic violence and gun violence among women in the United States, Missouri, and Kansas City. Everytown Research and Policy found that “Two-thirds of women killed by an intimate partner are killed with a gun.” Missouri alone ranks 6th in the rate of men murdering women and in Kansas City, 54% of most at-risk domestic violence victims were threatened with a weapon by their partners (Rose Brooks Center).

“I am excited to close the gaps between federal and state policies, creating the necessary and needed protections to survivors of domestic violence. In addition, we are utilizing the courts to help us keep firearms out of the hands of abusers to save lives and prevent any escalation” said Legislator Manuel Abarca IV.

Legislator Abarca and the Health and Environment Committee are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Jackson County Residents in its legislative efforts in violence prevention. Domestic Violence is a devastating issue that affects many individuals and families, and it’s paramount to recognize the urgent need to take action to prevent further tragic occurrences, particularly those involving firearms. The ordinance represents a deep dedication to the vulnerable populations of our community and to ensure that victims receive the justice that they deserve, and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. With these proactive measures, Legislator Abarca and the Jackson County Legislature reaffirm their decision to making Jackson County a safer environment for all.

The Jackson County Legislature meets on Mondays at 3 p.m. in the Legislative Assembly Area at the Jackson County Courthouse – 415 E 12th St. KCMO 64106 or be viewed here.