Victims of domestic violence in McKinley Park and the Chicago Police Department's 9th District have many resources at hand, including a police officer and civilian victim specialist.
That was the important message conveyed at the 9th Police District Council meeting on October 29, 2025, at the McKinley Park field house as Domestic Violence Awareness Month drew to a close.
Police Officer Jeanette Patino and Domestic Violence Victim Specialist Jessica Recillas both help victims at the 9th District, they said, from filing reports up to accompanying them to court.
The Network
Esmerelda Gonzalez shares domestic violence resources from The Network at the 9th District Police Council meeting on October 29, 2025.Patino said they also assist with safety planning in victims' homes, including help with orders of protection and finding shelter when needed. In September 2025, the 9th District received 213 calls for service related to domestic violence.
The Network is an Illinois-based not-for-profit advocating against domestic violence, and Community Project Manager Esmerelda Gonzalez shared the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline phone number — (877) 863-6338 — as an immediate resource.
Gonzalez also shared services that The Network provides, including emergency housing referrals, legal advocacy and providing safe rides to hospitals, shelters and court. The Network can assist with virtual orders of protection too, she said.
Limited Shelter Space
Shelter space in Chicago remains limited, Gonzalez said, with 130 days last year where none was available. For those seeking space, she recommended contacting shelters between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., around noon and at 5 p.m.
The next 9th District Police Council meeting takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Ping Tom Park, 300 W. 19th St., Chicago.
Photography by Kevin O'Neil
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