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Calgary: Prevent Violence, Save Millions
24 Feb
Summary
- Preventing domestic violence in Calgary could save millions in response costs.
- A $1.2 million investment in prevention could reduce violence by 40%.
- Taxpayers bore over 90% of the $58 million spent on DV response in 2019.
Spending on domestic violence prevention in Calgary presents a significant economic advantage over current response expenditures, according to recent research from the University of Calgary.
In 2019, the cost of responding to domestic violence in Calgary approached $58 million, with taxpayers shouldering more than 90% of these expenses. This includes costs associated with police response, court proceedings, and the broader justice system.
The study proposes that an annual investment of approximately $1.2 million towards programs that address the root causes of offender behavior could reduce domestic violence by as much as 40%. Such an investment is projected to yield substantial savings by decreasing the need for costly and time-consuming justice system interventions.
Calgary Police Service (CPS) acknowledges the report's findings, emphasizing its commitment to prevention, collaboration, and early intervention. The CPS noted that their officers witness firsthand how early engagement can alter negative trajectories for both victims and perpetrators. Programs like Equally Safe, a partnership between CPS and local organizations, have been offering support since 2020, highlighting the need for community-led solutions.
