The death of 23‑year‑old Kada Scott has prompted Philadelphia’s City Council public safety committee to hold a hearing on Tuesday. The committee will scrutinize the city’s “strategies, laws, and policies for protecting victims of abuse and domestic violence within the justice system.” The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. and will be livestreamed from City Hall.
Background on Kada Scott
Kada Scott was found dead near a school in the East Germantown neighborhood in October. Her death occurred roughly two weeks after she was kidnapped from her workplace at an assisted living facility in Northeast Philadelphia. The resolution that triggered the hearing was approved by Council President Kenyatta Johnson (D‑2nd dist.) following Scott’s death.
Legal Context and Police Response
Keon King, a man who allegedly kidnapped and assaulted another woman earlier this year, has been arrested and charged in Scott’s slaying. Women Against Abuse, a Philadelphia‑based provider of services to victims of domestic abuse, reports that police respond to more than 100,000 domestic‑violence related calls each year. City officials note that many of these cases never reach court, and those that do are often dismissed or withdrawn, leaving victims “without legal resolution or protection.”
Hearing Details and Expected Testimony
The hearing will take place Tuesday at 10 a.m. at City Hall. Scott’s parents, Kim Matthews and Keith Scott, are expected to testify. Organizers said the hearing will examine how the justice system can better protect domestic‑violence victims and prevent similar tragedies.
Officials’ Statements and Goals
Council President Johnson’s office released a statement outlining the hearing’s purpose: “Although this hearing alone may not ensure all domestic violence cases go to trial, it is a crucial step toward filling gaps in the system, improving inter‑agency cooperation, and pushing for policy changes to prevent future tragedies.” The statement emphasized a commitment to inter‑agency cooperation and policy reform.
Key Takeaways
- The public safety committee will hold a 10 a.m. hearing to review domestic‑violence protections.
- The hearing follows the death of Kada Scott and a resolution by Council President Kenyatta Johnson.
- Officials aim to address gaps that leave many domestic‑violence cases unresolved.
The hearing marks a significant step in Philadelphia’s efforts to strengthen protections for domestic‑violence victims. The city will update the public as new information becomes available.
