Definition: Total Reported Domestic Violence Offenses per 100,000 population in Sarasota County.

Source: Department of Law Enforcement

2025 Target: 337.5 per 100,000 population.

Below is a comparison of the value for this indicator among seven coastal counties: Charlotte, Sarasota, Collier, Lee, Manatee, Hillsborough, and Pinellas. These counties have been recommended as comparable counties by Sarasota County Government.

Domestic Violence Offense Rate per 100,000 Population (2016)

In 2016, the domestic violence related offense rate in Sarasota County was 334.6 per 100,000 population. This is a 48% decrease since 1995, and a 37% decrease from 2004. From 2006 to 2015, the domestic violence offense rate has remained largely consistent. Sarasota County has a lower rate than the state of Florida (524.3 per 100,000), with a difference of 189.7 offenses per 100,000 population.

The decline in domestic violence offenses may have to do with the increase of public education around the topic, as well as an increase in the amount of community support and organizations geared towards helping domestic violence victims. However, there is also a possibility that many cases of domestic violence go unreported. Studies show that the prevalence of domestic violence is due to both psychological and environmental factors. Adults who have experienced or witnessed abuse in their childhood are more likely to perpetrate domestic violence later on in life. Other risk factors include poverty, substance abuse, and lack of a high school education. Prevention of domestic abuse involves providing economic opportunity, mental health care, and community and youth programs that promote the prevention of abusiveness in any relationship. Domestic abuse may result in psychological trauma, stress-related physical symptoms, and homelessness.