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Roughly half of all calls to the Memphis Police Department relate to domestic abuse, of which some lead to court-ordered therapy for convicted offenders.
However, most traditional programs haven’t proven very effective.
The nonprofit Kindred Place Counseling Center (formerly known as the Exchange Club Family Center) is trying a different approach.
And James, a past participant, thinks it could actually break the cycle of violence.
This story was produced in partnership with the Institute for Public Service Reporting, and is part of the series Surging in Silence, which is supported by the Pulitzer Center.
James agreed to share his story on condition that we use only his first name. He was arrested two years ago for an incident he still disputes. A day spent arguing with his wife ended with a call to the police. In an affidavit, his wife said he choked her. James says he only grabbed her by the arms.