JACKSON, Tenn. (AP) - The Jackson Police Department is crediting 1 of its investigative units for helping reduce the number of homicides related to domestic violence.

The department says that between 2005 and 2009, domestic violence contributed to 11 of the city's 45 homicides, or 24%.

In September 2009, the Domestic Violence Unit began handling cases. Since 2010, only 1 of the city's 21 homicides has been attributed to domestic violence (0.4%).

After a domestic abuse-related incident, investigators attempt to contact every victim for a follow up. The investigator completes a lethality assessment and advises the victim about steps that need to be taken to deal with domestic violence.

The department says such procedures lead victims to become more informed about how domestic violence cases can escalate and lead to a homicide.

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