North Dakota Reports Record Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault Victims 2024

In 2024, North Dakota experienced a record number of people seeking help for domestic violence and sexual assault, with 6,334 victims of domestic violence and 1,363 victims of sexual assault served by advocacy centers, reflecting increases of 3.3% and 5.8% from the previous year. Women and children disproportionately face abuse, comprising 81% of domestic violence victims and 81% of sexual assault victims served, with over 4,700 children affected by domestic violence and 226 sexual assault victims under 18. People with disabilities are also significantly impacted, accounting for 23% of domestic violence victims and 36% of sexual assault victims, many with mental or developmental conditions. The Fargo-Moorhead Rape and Abuse Crisis Center reported a 17.6% rise in people served in 2024, linking the surge to pandemic-related trends that have persisted. Funding concerns loom as much of the coalition's support comes from federal grants, with potential cuts threatening the ability to meet growing demand. Awareness is rising, but barriers such as transportation, communication access, and abuse-related restrictions likely cause underreporting, underscoring the ongoing need for outreach and support services.