Domestic & Sexual Violence
Domestic and sexual violence increase within a relatively safe state
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Overview
Vermont is widely considered one of the safest states in the nation. In 2004, Vermont’s combined rate of violent crimes, including murder, forcible rape, robbery and aggravated assault, was less than one fourth of the national average. Nonetheless, rates of domestic and sexual violence are dramatically higher in two Vermont counties. While documented increases may reflect a growing awareness of this violence and a greater willingness to report it, the number of incidents, rate of increase and concentration of abuses are significant.
- In 2004, Vermont residents reported 185 forcible rapes to law enforcement—50% more rapes than the previous year.
- Between 1997 and 2006, domestic violence in Vermont increased by 50%, with a 15% increase from 2005 to 2006.
- While more than half of Vermonters are aware that services for battered women exist, fewer than one in five knew where to access a crisis hotline, a shelter, counseling, and/or social services.
Read more about domestic and sexual violence in Understanding Vermont or get a copy of the entire publication.