Rockford Launches Coordinated Response to Strangulation in Domestic Violence Cases

Rockford officials have launched a coordinated community protocol to help improve detection, response, and survivor support in cases of non-fatal strangulation linked to domestic violence.

A Unified Approach to Survivors

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Mayor's Office of Domestic and Community Violence Prevention has released a Coordinated Community Response to Strangulation Protocol.

The new initiative was developed by the city's Strangulation Task Force, and it continues to outline how community partners will respond to non-fatal strangulation incidents linked to intimate partner violence.

Addressing One of the Deadliest Forms of Abuse

According to the press release, strangulation is among the most lethal forms of domestic violence and one of the strongest indicators of future homicide.

Studies show that victims of non-fatal strangulation are 750 percent more likely to be killed by their partner later on.

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Yet, because strangulation often leaves few visible injuries, it can be difficult to detect without specialized training and coordinated response efforts.

Collaboration Across Agencies

The newly established protocol formalizes collaboration between key community partners, including Rockford Police, Rockford Fire, Winnebago County Sheriff's Office, the State's Attorney's Office, UW Health SwedishAmerican Hospital, MERIT, and the Family Peace Center.

It provides step-by-step guidance for telecommunications, EMTs, law enforcement, prosecutors, medical staff, and advocates, which ensures that survivors receive consistent, trauma-informed care from crisis through recovery.

To see the full protocol and get additional resources, CLICK HERE.