Today, Mayor Freddie O’Connell, alongside the Metro Nashville Office of Family Safety (OFS), the Family Safety Center (FSC) Leadership Committee, and community leaders, proudly released a 10-Year Assessment celebrating a decade of progress in addressing domestic violence.
This landmark report, guided by the FSC Leadership Committee and co-developed with OFS, reflects ten years of collaborative reform sparked by the 2013 Safety and Accountability Assessment, highlighting both successes and opportunities for continued growth.
In 2011, the late Legal Aid Society Attorney Jean Crowe and the late Judge Phillip Smith met with then-Mayor Karl Dean to address critical gaps in Nashville's response to domestic violence. Mayor Dean tasked Diane Lance, then Special Counsel, with leading a comprehensive review of the criminal justice process, from 911 calls to court proceedings. Over two years, more than 80 stakeholders, including nonprofit organizations, law enforcement, courts, and community agencies, contributed to the 2013 Assessment, identifying opportunities to enhance victim safety and offender accountability.
Over a decade later, the 10-Year Assessment celebrates Nashville's transformation into a national model for collaborative Family Justice Center work. This transformation includes significant advancements in victim safety and offender accountability efforts, particularly through reforms in law enforcement practices and court procedures. The report, informed by two Interpersonal Violence Summits in 2021 and 2023, showcases a dynamic process of innovation and vigilance, with cities nationwide looking to Nashville's model for guidance.
"Nashville has much to celebrate after ten years of transformative work, and we also see clearly the areas where we can improve to better serve crime victims and provide an ecosystem that prevents serious issues before they occur," Mayor Freddie O'Connell said. "This report isn't gathering dust on a shelf; it is a living document that shows public safety goes beyond law enforcement. It's about treating survivors with dignity and protecting our community from future harm. I'm proud of our momentum and the ways in which Nashville is setting the standard for victim-centered care and public safety.
Diane Lance, Director of Metro's Office of Family Safety noted that, "This milestone reflects over a decade of hard work and collaboration aimed at truly moving the needle for victims in our community. It all began with a simple but powerful truth: you cannot have a safe city without safety in the home. Prioritizing the safety of domestic violence victims doesn't just protect individuals; it strengthens families, neighborhoods, schools, and entire generations."
Vice Mayor Angie Henderson added, "while we celebrate a decade of extraordinary progress, we must also look ahead to the work that remains. The Metro Council looks forward to working alongside OFS and our community partners for a safer Nashville."
Key Highlights of the 10-Year Assessment
- Reflecting on Progress: A comprehensive review of the 2013 Assessment's impact and advancements in victim safety and offender accountability.
- Broadened Scope: Expanded focus on diverse forms of interpersonal violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and child and elder abuse.
- Collaborative Insights: Contributions from over 100 stakeholders across disciplines, ensuring a holistic approach.
- Actionable Recommendations: Five strategic priorities to guide Nashville's ongoing efforts in violence prevention and response.
- National Leadership: Recognition of Nashville's Family Safety Centers as a model for cities nationwide, fostering continued innovation.
The 10-Year Assessment is not just a reflection but a vibrant call to action, celebrating Nashville's achievements while urging sustained collaboration to address emerging challenges. Together, Nashville remains committed to building a safer, more supportive community for all survivors.
For more information or to access the full 10-Year Assessment, visit ofs.nashville.gov.