Cases of intimate partner violence are on the rise in Prince Edward County but there is much more to it than just a number.
Many communities, including Prince Edward County have declared IPV an epidemic.
In a recent presentation to the OPP Detachment Board, Detective Constable Aaron Miller said there were more than 300 IPV cases reported in 2025, up from just over 200 in 2023.
Miller is one of about 70 Detachment Abuse Issues Investigators (DAII) across the province who provides critical support to frontline officers in the investigation of intimate partner violence and other abuse-related cases.
DAIIs conduct case reviews, strengthen community partnerships and offer subject matter expertise to ensure investigations follow a consistent trauma-informed and victim-centred approach.
Miller says IPV cases are complex.
With the average age skewing older in the county, Miller says dementia can often play a role in their investigations.
“There’s a mandatory charge policy in Ontario when it comes to IPV. And that’s no different when we look at, you know, mental health, dementia-involves cases. So as you can imagine, some of those decisions aren’t taken lightly. Of course, we have a job to do to keep folks safe. And that applies in older adults as well.”
Still, the highest demographic of victims and accused in IPV cases are among 25- to 45-year-olds.
In addition to mental health, substance abuse and financial strains are some of the contributing factors in IPV cases.
He says IPV cases in the county continue to be mainly gender-based with most victims being women and most accused being males though there are exceptions.
He says police treat each case with the same care and that follow-up supports and services like Alternatives for Women, Victim Services and Three Oaks Shelter are integral.
Part of the DAII’s role is to also follow up with victims.
“To make sure that they have everything they need, especially when a charge is laid. We’re finding there’s a whole lot of information being thrown at a family. Oftentimes they’re looking at, you know, their life could potentially be changed, you know – has a parent been removed from the situation? What does that look like?”
Miller notes an increase in calls for service may be related to victims feeling safer coming forward.
He again credits the work of the supports offered in the community encouraging victims to take action.
Miller says IPV is not something they can police their way out of, but community response is key to helping victims move forward.
