Domestic violence remains a critical issue in Washington, DC, prompting a collaborative effort between law enforcement, clergy, and community organizations. On September 10, 2026, the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office hosted the launch of a new initiative under the city's 'kNOw DV' (Know Domestic Violence) campaign. The event, held in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department's (MPD) Third District 'Cops and Clergy' program and the MPD Victim Services Branch, brought together faith leaders, police officials, and resource providers to address the rise in domestic violence.
The gathering underscored the importance of a community-wide approach to tackling domestic violence. Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll delivered introductory remarks, emphasizing the urgency of the issue. 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 highlighted the need for specialized training to help clergy recognize early signs of domestic violence and connect survivors with available resources.
The 'kNOw DV' campaign, a districtwide priority backed by the mayor, combines awareness training to 'Know DV' so that steps can be taken to handle it, ultimately leading to 'No DV.' The initiative reflects a growing recognition that domestic violence is not just a law enforcement issue but a public health and community safety concern that requires the involvement of trusted community figures, including faith leaders.
Resource vendors provided attendees with information on services available across the city. These included 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. The evening concluded with coffee and dessert, allowing participants to visit resource tables and learn more about specific tools and support mechanisms.
Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the event. 'Our office was honored to host Chief Carroll and his team and assist in the launching of the Cops and Clergy domestic violence initiative,' she said. '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 implications of this initiative extend beyond immediate intervention. By equipping clergy with the knowledge to spot early indicators of domestic violence, the program aims to create a network of first responders within faith communities. This could lead to earlier referrals to services, potentially reducing the severity and frequency of abuse. The collaboration also signals a broader trend in which religious institutions and law enforcement work together to address social issues, fostering trust and improving outcomes for survivors.
For more information on the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office and its community work, visit their website at https://www.scientology.org. The 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.
The 'Cops and Clergy' domestic violence initiative will continue with workshops and training sessions scheduled across the district. As the program expands, its success will depend on sustained collaboration and the active participation of faith leaders, law enforcement, and community members committed to ending domestic violence.
