For Moscow Police Chief Byron Williams, the fight against domestic violence is personal. Years ago, his sister was killed by her husband—a tragedy that continues to fuel his determination to prevent similar outcomes for others.
“Domestic violence isn’t just a statistic—it’s happening all around us, and it destroys lives,” said Chief Williams.
Tennessee consistently ranks among the top 10 states for domestic violence-related homicides, with nearly half of female victims killed by an intimate partner.
In response, Fayette Cares equips local officers with the Lethality Assessment Program (LAP), a research-based screening tool used during domestic violence calls to help identify victims at the highest risk.
The program does more than assess risk. When a victim is identified as high-danger, officers immediately connect them with Fayette Cares for emergency shelter, safety planning, and support services in real time.
Thanks to training led by Fayette Cares LAP Coordinator and Victim Advocate Kelsey Wilson, Moscow officers are now better prepared to recognize red flags and intervene quickly.
With a 92% accuracy rate in predicting intimate partner homicides, LAP is saving lives across the country,and now, right here in Fayette County.
“Domestic violence is a crisis in our state and county,” Chief Williams added. “Partnering with Fayette Cares allows us to take a proactive step toward breaking the cycle of abuse and protecting those in danger.”
