Solano County Launches Campaign Against Domestic Violence

On October 4, 2023, Solano County officials held a press conference to address the pressing issue of domestic violence, emphasizing their commitment to support survivors and hold offenders accountable. The event coincided with the recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a declaration made by the Board of Supervisors earlier this month.

Commitment to Accountability

District Attorney Krishna Abrams highlighted the alarming statistics from 2024, which showed that law enforcement agencies in Solano County responded to 1,842 domestic violence-related calls. Of these calls, 1,829 incidents involved weapons, and 76 were cases of strangulation. The Solano Family Justice Center has also played a pivotal role, assisting 1,878 clients and 1,710 children affected by family violence in 2025.

“We are steadfast in our commitment to combat domestic violence,” Abrams stated, acknowledging the presence of new Solano County Sheriff Brad DeWall and police chiefs from across the county. She expressed gratitude for their leadership in addressing this critical issue.

Breaking the Silence

Reflecting on her early career, Abrams recounted her discouragement in prosecuting domestic violence cases, often encountering the notion that such matters were private. “It is not a private matter, and it is a crime,” she asserted. Abrams also pointed to the case of Gregory Grant Hobson, who is currently on trial for allegedly murdering his wife of 28 years around Valentine’s Day 2023, underscoring the tragic consequences of domestic violence.

Among those speaking at the event was Natalie Chavez, a domestic violence survivor from Solano County. Chavez encouraged individuals facing similar situations to seek help, sharing her personal journey of overcoming abuse. “For too long I told myself that things would get better,” she said, describing the life-changing moment she called 911 and received support from a dispatcher and an advocate.

Chavez emphasized the importance of therapy for herself and her children as they work towards recovery. “To anyone out there suffering in silence wondering if you can make it out, I am here to tell you that you can,” she urged.

Abrams reiterated the necessity of police intervention in breaking the cycle of violence, stating, “We are with survivors always, even if you are not ready to leave.” She encouraged law enforcement to continue supporting victims by amplifying their voices and providing necessary resources.

Vacaville Police Chief Chris Polen noted that his department responds to calls from victims in crisis almost daily. He described the event as an opportunity to show solidarity with victims and to reassure them that reaching out for help is crucial. “They’re not sure where to go or what’s next for them, they’re scared,” he explained.

Polen highlighted the unique approach of the Vacaville Police Department, which has a dedicated Family Response Unit that supports victims through the legal process. “From the initial 911 call until the contact with the District Attorney’s office, the City of Vacaville is with our victims,” he said.

As the press conference concluded, Abrams reminded attendees that while leaving an abusive relationship can be daunting, the county is committed to supporting survivors. “Despite the hard road you will have ahead of you, you are telling yourself that your life does truly matter,” she affirmed, encouraging a collective effort to combat domestic violence in the community.