Domestic violence (DV) is a districtwide top priority in Washington, DC, and a new collaborative initiative is bringing together law enforcement, clergy, and community resources to address it. The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office hosted the launch of the "kNOw DV" (Know Domestic Violence) campaign at its office, partnering with the Third Police District's "Cops and Clergy" program and the Police Department's Victim Services Branch, Criminal Investigations Division. The event, held on September 10, 2026, highlighted the urgency of the issue and the need for a village approach to support survivors and prevent abuse.
The gathering featured Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll, who delivered introductory remarks emphasizing the importance of addressing domestic violence. Presentations followed from Officer Randy Rogers, MPD Third District Cops and Clergy Liaison Officer; a DC pastor who shared a personal story; a statistician from the DC Sentencing Commission; the director of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants; and the president of The Magi Group. Each speaker discussed various facets of domestic violence and stressed the value of specialized training seminars and workshops designed to help clergy identify early indicators and refer those affected to city resources.
Resource vendors provided information to attendees, including the Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency (CSOSA), DC Sentencing Commission, Foundation for a Drug-Free World, Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse, The Magi Group, LLC, My Sister's Place DC, Victim Services Branch, Volare DC, Volunteer Legal Advocates, and the Church of Scientology. Attendees were invited to visit resource tables over coffee and dessert to learn more about available tools. The overarching message, to "kNOw DV" (Know Domestic Violence), underscored the necessity of training and collaboration among clergy, police, agencies, and citizens to support those affected by domestic violence.
Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, said, "Our office was honored to host Chief Carroll and his team and assist in the launching of the Cops and Clergy domestic violence initiative. We were excited to see many faith leaders reaching out and scheduling workshops. With all of us working together using the tools we have, we will make a difference to help address domestic violence. We look forward to our continued partnership with the police, agencies and faith leaders."
The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office represents the church in the nation's capital and works with many organizations to improve human rights, criminal justice reform, drug prevention education, and religious freedom domestically and internationally. For more information on the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, visit https://www.scientology.org. To learn more about the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, visit https://www.drugfreeworld.org.
This initiative matters because domestic violence affects individuals, families, and communities across all demographics. By combining the reach of faith leaders with the authority and resources of law enforcement, the "kNOw DV" campaign aims to create a network of support that can intervene early and effectively. For business and technology leaders, the emphasis on training and resource coordination highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing social issues. The involvement of organizations like the DC Sentencing Commission and CSOSA suggests a data-driven approach to reducing recidivism and improving outcomes. As the campaign rolls out, its success could serve as a model for other cities seeking to tackle domestic violence through community partnerships. The event also demonstrates how religious institutions can play a vital role in public safety and social welfare, potentially influencing corporate social responsibility strategies and community engagement efforts.
