St. Paul officials hold panel on domestic abuse

Authorities in St. Paul say changes in the way domestic violence cases are investigated and charged has led to an increase in the number of convictions.

Police Chief Tom Smith, Mayor Chris Coleman, and St. Paul City Attorney Sara Grewing will participate in a panel discussion at 11 a.m. Tuesday to highlight the issue of domestic violence.

Among other things, the panel will talk about the city's participation in "Blueprint for Safety," a pilot project that aims to reduce domestic abuse. It helps authorities better assess how dangerous a suspect truly is, and whether a situation could be lethal.

Tuesday's panel will also recognize those who work to fight domestic violence. A survivor of domestic abuse will also be part of the discussion.

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