Philly City Council to hold hearing on domestic violence case handling following Kada Scott’s death.

The Philadelphia City Council has announced an investigation into the local justice system’s processes for safeguarding victims of abuse and domestic violence. This inquiry follows the tragic murder of 23-year-old Kada Scott, a resident of Mount Airy. Authorities have charged 32-year-old Keon King with murder, along with other serious offenses including kidnapping and concealing Scott’s body behind an abandoned school in East Germantown.

King’s arrest came after he allegedly assaulted an ex-girlfriend in two separate incidents located in December and January. In the latter incident, he reportedly kidnapped and choked her inside his vehicle. Despite prosecutors requesting a bail of nearly million for these charges, a judge opted to set bail at 0,000. Consequently, King was able to gain release after posting ,000 while the District Attorney’s office opted not to appeal the decision.

Both cases against King ultimately collapsed when the victim and crucial witnesses failed to appear in court. District Attorney Larry Krasner acknowledged that the decision to withdraw charges in the second case was misguided, given the existing video evidence that could have supported prosecution. He emphasized the responsibility of the courts in permitting King’s release on earlier charges, thereby allowing this series of events to progress towards the tragic outcome in Scott’s case.

In response to the events surrounding Scott’s murder, Council President Kenyatta Johnson expressed his deep concern regarding the systemic failures that led to the situation. The City Council has passed a resolution enabling the Committee on Public Safety to conduct hearings focused on the efficacy of coordination between the courts, the sheriff’s office, the district attorney’s office, and the police in protecting domestic violence victims.

The Council has also moved to honor Kada Scott posthumously, with Councilmember Anthony Phillips describing her as a “beacon of light and love,” renowned for her kindness and her impactful presence in her community. A business owner who established a beauty spa at the age of 19, Scott is remembered as someone who cherished self-care, community, and purpose.

Additionally, the City Council is considering broader legislative measures to improve the system’s response to domestic violence, aiming to prevent further tragedies similar to Scott’s from occurring. The ongoing investigation and review may lead to significant changes in the protective measures offered to victims of domestic violence in Philadelphia. Media News Source.