In a groundbreaking initiative to confront domestic violence from within the correctional system, Caddo Parish officials and mental health professionals met October 31, 2024, with male inmates at Caddo Correctional Center. The goal: to address the impact of domestic violence on victims, families and communities.
The collaborative effort between the Caddo District Attorney’s office and Clint Davis Integrative Counseling aimed to educate offenders and provide insights into prevention, intervention and the lasting consequences of domestic violence.
Assistant District Attorney Ron Christopher Stamps, a leading prosecutor in cases involving domestic and family violence, was joined by Melvin Lars, an expert in community engagement, and Clint Davis, a licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Clint Davis Integrative Counseling. Together, they facilitated an open discussion, engaging the inmates on the real and pervasive impact of domestic violence. This discussion offered perspectives on behavior modification, strategies for healthier relationships and the need to break cycles of violence.
“This initiative represents our commitment not only to justice but to genuine change,” said Caddo Parish District Attorney James E. Stewart Sr. “Addressing offenders directly, within a structured environment, is a crucial step in equipping them with the tools they need to understand the consequences of their actions and to prevent future violence.”
The collaboration aims to foster accountability while offering tools and resources for personal growth and change, addressing the root causes of domestic violence and equipping offenders with insights that may prevent recidivism upon their reentry into society. By facilitating dialog, this program empowers inmates to reflect on their behavior, understand the far-reaching effects of domestic violence and adopt healthier, non-violent responses in personal relationships.
“Intervention at this stage is crucial,” Clint Davis said. “It allows offenders to understand the power of their actions on the lives of their victims, on their own families and on the wider community. Education and counseling are key elements to breaking these destructive cycles and laying the groundwork for positive change.”
The initiative underscores Caddo Parish’s commitment to addressing domestic violence at all levels, with preventative measures aimed at creating safer communities. This program will continue to develop as a valuable tool for empowering offenders with the knowledge and resources necessary to make meaningful changes, transforming their lives and, ultimately, the lives of those affected by domestic violence.
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