CT Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee Releases Latest Report

In a report released on 31 July, the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee  has found that, in the vast majority of fatalities reviewed, family members, friends and/or professionals were not fully aware of the escalating circumstances between the perpetrator and the victim. In addition, these individuals did not recognize the significance of the situation or the warning signs.

The 15-member examination team – made up of representatives from the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, law enforcement, the Office of the Chief's State’s Attorney, the Office of Victim of Services, the Department of Social Services, Survivors of Homicide, the Department of Public Health, the Office of the Child Advocate, and the Department of Correction – works to prevent future deaths by conducting multi-disciplinary, systemic examinations of violent intimate partner fatalities. Through its examinations, the group also found that in certain cases, the abusive relationship was established when the victim was a teenager. According to the Connecticut State Department of Health “2011 Connecticut Health Survey” approximately 10% of all students surveyed reported that they were hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend. This, coupled with existence of a consistent group of precipitating factors, has led the team to recommend initiatives to provide teens with the tools and knowledge necessary to develop healthy relationships and essential life skills.

To access the complete report, please visit:

Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee: Upon Further Examination: 2012 Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee (July 2012)

Background information:

Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence