Calgary police report rise in domestic violence cases as city nears five-year high

Calgary police say domestic violence incidents in the city are increasing and could reach their highest level in five years, as November marks Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta.

New figures from the Calgary Police Service show 3,592 domestic violence reports were filed between January and September 2025, compared to a five-year average of 3,163. Domestic conflict incidents – which include verbal disputes and other non-criminal situations – also climbed to 14,616, surpassing the average of 14,193 for the same period.

Police note the statistics exclude cases involving children and seniors, but highlight a steady rise in reports from male victims for three consecutive years. Although men account for less than one-third of all victims, officers say the increase reflects changing awareness and reporting patterns.

Staff Sgt. Glenn Andruschuk of the Domestic Conflict Unit said many cases occur after relationships end, a period identified as particularly dangerous. “Exiting an abusive relationship can be incredibly difficult — and as the statistics show, it can also be incredibly dangerous,” he said, urging victims to seek help when needed.

The Domestic Conflict Unit works with community partners to track trends, assess risk, and support victims through prevention and enforcement programs. Calgary police also operate the Domestic Violence Review and Assignment Team, which prioritizes high-risk files, and participate in the High Risk Management Initiative alongside local agencies to monitor and manage repeat offenders.

Police encourage anyone experiencing domestic abuse to contact law enforcement or community resources. Survivor stories, such as that of Calgarian Candace, highlight the difference timely intervention can make. “When I escaped a violent domestic relationship, my first call was to the Calgary Police,” she said. “Because of their kindness, I am still here today.”