ORDINANCE NO. 240948

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Sponsor: Councilmember Crispin Rea and Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw

Amending Chapter 50, Code of Ordinances, by enacting a new Section 50-177, "Domestic Assault", for the purpose of instituting a specific municipal ordinance violation for domestic assault.

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WHEREAS, domestic violence is a serious issue that affects the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and the community; and

WHEREAS, it is essential to ensure that victims of domestic assault are protected and that those who commit acts of violence against domestic victims are held accountable under appropriate legal standards; and

WHEREAS, the City of Kansas City seeks to align its local ordinances with state laws to ensure that domestic assault offenses are properly categorized and prosecuted, reflecting the seriousness of these offenses; and

WHEREAS, creating a specific municipal offense for domestic assault will provide a clear legal framework for addressing such incidents in a manner that supports victims and reinforces the City's commitment to public safety; and

WHEREAS, this ordinance is designed to provide law enforcement and prosecutors with the necessary tools to address domestic violence cases effectively within the municipal court system; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

Section 1. That Chapter 50, Code of Ordinances of the City of Kansas City, is hereby amended by enacting a new Section 50-177, entitled "Domestic Assault," to read as follows:

Sec. 50-177. Domestic Assault

(a) Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall mean:

(1) Domestic victim means spouses, former spouses, any person related by blood or marriage, persons who are presently residing together or have resided together in the past, any person who is or has been in a continuing social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim, and anyone who has a child in common regardles...

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