further examination

upon

Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee

upon further examination

Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee

This report is a product of the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee, a collaboration of private, public and non-profit organizations operating throughout Connecticut.

Written by Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence East Hartford, CT

July 2011, Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence. All rights reserved. Permission to reproduce any portion of this report is granted, on the condition that the title is included and the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence is fully credited.

This report is dedicated to Shirley Pierce Bostrom and Lawrence J. Bostrom, the surviving parents of Margaret Bostrom, PhD. Margaret tragically lost her life at the hands of her abusive husband on August 16, 1996. No words can adequately express their commitment to ending domestic violence. The Bostroms travel extensively throughout the country to tell their story, and to lend their support and encouragement to others who have experienced a tragic loss due to domestic violence.

Findings

In This Report

We are grateful to the following people whowho servedthe Connecticut Domestic We are grateful to the following people served on on the Connecticut Violence Fatality Review Team since its inception on June 2001. Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team since its inception in June 2001.
Table of Contents Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Pages 5-6 Pages 7-11 Pages 12-17 Pages 18-19 Acknowledgements History and Overview Mission and Objectives Methodology Findings and Recommendations Data Findings Fatalities

Acknowledgements
Penni Micca, Chair

We are grateful to the following people whowho servedthe Connecticut Domestic We are grateful to the following people served on on the Connecticut Interval House Violence Fatality Review Team since its inception on June 2001. Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team since its inception in June 2001.

When the systematic evaluation of domesticCCADV homicide began, research focused on

This report is being issued by the analyzing the trends in intimate partner homicide. These trends looked at concrete factors Linda Blozie Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic CCADV Violence (CCADV) and its Connecticut age, race, ethnicity, history of domestic violence Judith Rossi, Esq. of domestic violence homicide such as Howard Shaw, MD. Domestic Violence Fatality Review Larry Bostrom H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Judith Committee. relationship, prior threats to kill the victim, agency contacts, criminal history within theRossi, Esq. Survivors of Homicide Howard Shaw, MD

Margaret Rosa, Coordinator

Members

and the presence of alcohol Violence research it was ThePatrick Hynes, Domestic or drugs. From this Shirley Bostrom determined that men and AlConnecticut PhD. Harper, PhD.

Lisa Holden

Fatality Review Committee works to Lawrence Stanley, PhD. Survivors of Homicide Deborah Bostrom women future deaths by partners for prevent kill their intimate conducting different reasons. Specifically, men kill their Shirley Bostrom Lawrence Bostrom multi-disciplinary, systemic examinations Linda J. Cimino Maureen final outcome to an ongoing pattern of abuse, whereas women typically kill partners as aWhalen of violent intimate partner fatalities. Shirley Pierce Office of Victim Services Ronni Selko Bostrom

A special thanks goes out to the family Kevin Dunn Linda Blozie Faith Vos homicide victims who members of Winkel legislation which protects victims, the Chief States Attorney Office of there are still a disproportionate violence thatRosa to Margaret led Howard Shaw, MD. were willing to talk with us about the Al Harper, PhD. PhD. Deborah Stanley, struggles they faced.violence victims being killed by their abusive partners, JudithnumberEsq. number of domestic Those who serve and a Rossi, Kenneth Edwards Linda Hynes, PhD. PatrickJ. CiminoViolence Fatality Lisa Holden Office of the Chief States Attorney on the Domestic Faith Rivenburghkilling their thanks partners. By the 1990s, a few statesHarper, PhD. Vos Winkel Al and local of female victims Lori Review Committee also deserve abusive Lawrence Bostrom for Lindadedication and commitment to their Thurnauer Beau J. Cimino investigating circumstancesPatricia Froehlich jurisdictions Carver,in their community began MD surrounding domestic homicides. Bostrom Office of the States Attorney Shirley From H. the tragedies facingWayne Penni Micca them. Windham District Howard Sovronsky Maureen Whalen and learning from

in self-defense (Websdale, 1999). Although there has been a lot of research on domestic Tonya Johnson Patricia Froehlich, Esq.

these preliminary inquiries, fatality review teams began to formulate throughout the Margaret Rosa

Penni Micca Ronni Selko Patrick Hynes Kevin Johnson Tonya Johnson Tonya country. Dunn, Esq. Department of Correction Kenneth Edwards Linda Blozie Dana Brandon Beau Thurnauer Margaret Rosa Tonya Johnson Ronni Selko Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Deborah Stanley, PhD. FatalityRivenburgh serve to gather a group of CCADV professionals together to evaluate PhD. review diverse Lisa Holden teams Lori Patrick Hynes, Dana Blozie Faith Vos and Lori Rivenburgh Linda homicides. These reviews function to examine the lives of the victim Winkel domesticBrandon Womens Support Services Linda J. Cimino Maureen Whalen perpetrator prior to the incident, events surrounding the death, and if there were any gaps H. Wayne Carver, MD Alison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky Howard Sovronsky Community Health explore what changes, in service delivery. From this data gathering, agencies can begin toResourcesPenni Micca Matthew DeMichele Kevin can be Howard to be made if any, need Sovronsky to better serve membersBeau Thurnauer of our community. These reviewsDunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards East Hartford Police Department Kevin Dunn, Esq. useful for enhancing prevention and interventions programs that exist to Beau Thurnauer prevent such Kenneth Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel deaths from occurring in the future. Office of the Child Advocate Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
2

History and Overview

In the 1990s, a few to the following people who served on the Connecticut Domestic and local jurisdictions began investigating the circumstances We are grateful states the following people who served on the Connecticut We are grateful to surrounding domestic homicides. From these preliminary inquiries, fatality review Violence Fatality Review Team since its inception on June Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team since Fatality review2001. serve to teams began to formulate throughout the country.its inception in June 2001. teams gather a group of diverse professionals together to evaluate domestic homicides. When the systematic evaluation of domestic homicide began, research focused on analyzing the trends in intimate partner homicide. These trends looked at concrete factors of domestic violence homicide such as age, race, ethnicity, history of Judith Rossi, Esq. Howard violence within the relationship, prior threats to kill the victim, agency domestic Shaw, MD. H. Wayne Carver Judith Rossi, Esq. II, M.D. contacts, criminal history and the presence of alcohol or drugs.

Howard Shaw, MD Lisa Holden AsPatrick Hynes, PhD. reviews expanded to examine the lives of the victim and Altime passed, these Harper, PhD. perpetratorBostrom the incident, including events surrounding the death. They prior to Lawrence Stanley, PhD. Deborah then identified any gaps in service delivery. From this data gathering, domestic Shirley Bostrom Lawrence Bostrom violence agencies have begun to explore what changes, if any, need to be made Maureen Whalen toRonni Selko victims. These reviews are useful tools for enhancing programs better Pierce Shirley serve Bostrom and will Johnson prevent future deaths. Tonya serve to Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Linda Blozie Faith Vos Winkel Upon the request of Connecticut residents, Shirley and Larry Bostrom, the Connecticut Margaret Rosa Howard Shaw, MD. Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) established a Fatality Review Committee Al Harper, PhD. PhD. Judith Rossi, inDeborah Stanley,When the Bostroms approached CCADV about implementing a Esq. October 2001. Linda Hynes, PhD. PatrickJ. Cimino Lisa Holden review team, the premise was to gather professionals who might not have otherwise Faith Rivenburgh Al Harper, PhD. Lori Vos Winkel collaborated for this process. In an effort to develop an understanding of barriers Linda Thurnauer victims face and to prevent these types of fatalities, the Lawrence Bostrom domestic Cimino Beau J. violence H. Wayne Carver, MD Shirley Bostrom Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee was created. Penni Micca Howard Sovronsky Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa Penni Micca Ronni Selko Kevin Dunn, Esq. Tonya Johnson Tonya Johnson Kenneth Edwards Linda Blozie Dana Brandon Beau Thurnauer Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Deborah Stanley, PhD. LisaRivenburgh Holden Lori Patrick Hynes, PhD. Dana Brandon Faith Vos Winkel Linda Blozie Linda J. Cimino Maureen Whalen H. Wayne Carver, MD Alison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Howard Sovronsky Kenneth Edwards Kevin Dunn, Esq. Beau Thurnauer Kenneth Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
3

Mission and Objectives

The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee works to prevent future deaths by conducting multi-disciplinary, systemic examinations of violent intimate partner fatalities. The Committees objectives are to: . Enhance the safety of victims and accountability of batterers . Identify systemic gaps and barriers to service . Implement coordinated community responses . Influence public policy for intervention and prevention The Committee brings together key individuals in social service, medical, education, advocacy and justice systems for detailed examinations of domestic violence fatalities. The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee does not and will not assign blame for fatalities to individuals, agencies or institutions. The perpetrator of the homicide is assumed to be ultimately responsible for the fatality. Rather than Howard Shaw, MD. investigate these fatalities, the Committee conducts a reflective review by creating an Judith Rossi, environment conducive to open and honest conversations for the purpose of effecting Esq. Lisa Holden positive change. The Committee focuses on community responses to domestic violence such as services, policy, practice, training, information, communication, collaboration and PhD. Al Harper, resources. Lawrence Bostrom

Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Definition of a Domestic Violence Fatality Linda Blozie The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee Margaret Rosa defines a domestic violence fatality as a death that arises from Deborah Stanley, PhD. an individuals efforts to assert power and control over his/her Patrick Hynes, PhD. intimate partner. Faith Vos Winkel Linda J. Cimino The fatalities in this report include: H. Wayne Carver, MD . Any homicide in which the victim was an intimate partner Howard Sovronsky or former intimate partner of the individual responsible Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. for the homicide. . Any suicide of the perpetrator of an intimate partner Kenneth Edwards fatality. Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
4

Methodology
The Committee selects cases to be reviewed with three criteria in mind. All criminal and civil cases pertaining to the victim and perpetrator must be closed with no pending appeals. All murder-suicides are available for review and lastly, the date of the homicide does not extend beyond five years. Once the cases are selected, the Committee conducts a detailed review of all public records and other documentation related to these homicides, and meets with family members, friends and individuals who came in contact with the victim. A timeline, a linear chronology of the case, is then constructed. The timeline focuses on the principal markers of the case and enables the Committee: (1) to see how Judith Rossi, Esq. and when the batterers tactics escalated over time, (2) to look at the red flags as they H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. and the victim, (3) to review the communitys involvement pertain to both the batterer in the case Shaw, MD make recommendations to community stakeholders with full Howard and (4) to expectation of implementation. T he following outlines the collection tools employed Patrick Hynes, by the Committee. PhD. Medical Examiner Reports Shirley Pierce Bostrom Medical Examiner reports are gathered to determine the cause of death, manner of death, age,Patricia Froehlich,of the victim. In addition, these reports are also used to determine gender and race Esq. if there was a presence of drugs or alcohol in the victims system at the time of death; in Faith Vos Winkel the homicide-suicide cases the perpetrators autopsy report is also obtained to determine Howard Shaw, MD. Al Harper, PhD. presence of drugs or alcohol.

Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom

Judith Rossi, Esq. Linda J. Cimino Lisa Holden Police Reports Lori Rivenburgh Police reports relating to both the perpetrator and victim are requested from Al Harper, PhD. the city or Beau Thurnauer Lawrence Bostrom town of the homicide occurrence. These reports are used to determine if known circumstances of domestic violence existed prior to the fatality and to gather dataShirley Bostrom regarding Penni Micca Maureen Whalen the circumstances surrounding the homicide. Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Criminal Justice Inquiry Tonya Johnson At the State of Connecticuts Judicial Branch Homepage (www.jud.ct.gov),Linda Blozie the case Dana Brandon look-up feature provides information about all criminal and family court proceedings Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko throughout the state. From this information, it can be determined if there was aDeborahof history Stanley, PhD. Lisa Holden restraining orders against the perpetrator, pending divorce proceedings and child custody Patrick Hynes, PhD. motions. Additionally, the Committee used data from the Connecticut Department ofFaith Vos Winkel Correction Linda Blozie homepage (www.ct.gov/doc) that provides public information regarding the sentencing status Maureen Whalen Linda J. Cimino of offenders. H. Wayne Carver, MD Alison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Kenneth Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
5

Methodology
Interviews When possible, interviews are conducted with friends and family members. Generally, the Committee appoints members who have direct experience with the loss of a loved one to conduct the interviews. Previous to meeting with friends or family members, they are contacted via letter or telephone to seek their permission to be interviewed and to explain the fatality review process. Interviewing surviving friends and family is not mandatory in the data collection process, but the Committee recognizes that the insights that may be offered are unique and an important part of getting to know the Judith Rossi, Esq. victim. Media Reports MD Howard Shaw, Most media outlets in Connecticut provide some type of coverage when there is a Patrick Hynes, PhD. domestic violence related fatality. CCADV maintains an inventory of all domestic Deborah Stanley, PhD. violence related articles and those related to fatalities are cataloged for use in the review process. Lawrence Bostrom

H. Wayne Carver II, M.D.

Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD. Linda J. Cimino18 wheel trucks. She was a Alice drove 100 lb woman. Lori Rivenburgh Pink shirt, Pomeranian dog and a hard Beau Thurnauer hat, adventure was her middle name. Penni Micca
Tom Mealy, Margaret Rosa brother of Alice Morrin Tonya Johnson Dana Brandon

Ronni Selko Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards

Howard Shaw, MD. Judith Rossi, Esq. Lisa Holden Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Linda Blozie Margaret Rosa Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Faith Vos Winkel Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
6

Findings and Recommendations

Use of Domestic Violence Services/Knowledge of Domestic Violence

Interviews and research indicated that in the vast majority of fatalities reviewed in Connecticut, victims did not reach out to their local domestic violence agency. In Connecticut there are eighteen domestic violence agencies that provide a full range of comprehensive services including but not limited to a 24 hour hotline, counseling, educational and support groups, advocacy in court and with area providers, childrens Judith Rossi, Esq. programs, emergency shelter, training and community education. Family interviewsMD Howard Shaw, conducted indicated that victims were not aware that domestic violence services existed. They also reported that they were not always aware Patrick Hynes, PhD. that domestic violence was occurring within the relationship. If they knew about the Deborah Stanley, PhD. violence, they maintained that they did not have the information about how to help a friend Bostrom member who is being abused. Lawrence or family

H. Wayne Carver II, M.D.

Howard Shaw, MD. Judith Rossi, Esq. Linda J. Cimino Lisa Holden 1. CCADV in Lori Rivenburgh collaboration with its member domestic violence agencies willHarper, PhD. Al assess its communication strategies in regard to service delivery. Lawrence Bostrom Beau Thurnauer Shirley Bostrom PenniCCADV shall initiate a public information campaign to heighten awareness 2. Micca Maureen Whalen in regard Margaret Rosa to the availability of and access to domestic violence services. Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Tonya Johnson 3. CCADV shall initiate collaboration with media representatives to produce Linda Dana a media guide for the reporting of domestic violence fatalities to include Blozie Brandon Margaret Rosa where Ronni Selko help is available. Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lisa Holden will utilize traditional and non-traditional opportunities to reach 4. CCADV Patrick Hynes, PhD. Lindathe public through media, social networking and community action. Blozie Faith Vos Winkel Linda J. Cimino Maureen Whalen H. Wayne Carver, MD Alison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Kevin Dunn, Esq. We refer to domestic violence services as shelters when a more appropriate term Beau Thurnauer Kenneth Edwards would be domestic violence agencies. Referring to these agencies as shelters is Esq. Patricia Froehlich, an inaccurate representation of the many services they offer forLori Rivenburgh victims. Dana Brandon

Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.

Recommendations

Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations

Children and Domestic Violence
In all but one case that was reviewed, there were children present when the fatality occurred, including children who were not related to the family. According to family interviews, family members or other loved ones took the primary responsibility for the parenting of the surviving children. Children who live with domestic violence face increased risks: the risk of exposure to Judith Rossi, Esq. traumatic events, the risk of neglect, the risk of being directly abused, and the risk of H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. losing one or both of their parents. All of these may lead to negative outcomes for children andHoward Shaw, MD may affect their well-being, safety, and stability (Carlson, 2000; Edleson, 1999; Rossman, 2001).

Patrick Hynes, PhD. Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom

Shirley Pierce Bostrom Recommendations Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel 1. CCADV will collaborate with lead child advocates within state and local Al Harper, PhD. government to develop and implement early intervention strategies

Findings and Recommendations

Linda forCimino exposed to domestic violence. J. children Lori Rivenburgh 2. CCADV will work to amend CGS 54-216 to include children who witness Beau Thurnauer violence crime. a domestic Penni Micca

3. The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee shall seek Margaret Rosa to collaborate with the Child Fatality Review Committee/Office of the TonyaChild Advocate to strengthen its review process and recommendations. Johnson Dana Brandon

4. Selko RonniCCADV will work with lead public safety officials to develop protocols in regard to the provision of immediate trauma responsive services for Lisa Holden who witness or are present during a domestic violence fatality. children Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele

Services for children who witness domestic violence are the least funded of all Kenneth Edwards domestic violence services in Connecticut. In 2010, over 1,200 children received services from a domestic violence agency.
8

Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq.

Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations Findings and Recommendations

Precipitating Factors
For each fatality reviewed, the Committee determined that events existed that were driving factors in the commission of the murder. For the perpetrator, it appeared that a divorce, break-up of the relationship or the loss of parental/custodial rights of children remained high as precipitating factors for the fatality.

Judith Rossi, Esq. Stalking the victim was a common theme in many of these fatalities, as well as previous H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. property damage or other non-violent crimes.
According to Jacquelyn Campbell, PhD, RN of Johns Hopkins University and a leading Patrick Hynes, assessment, Lethality risk assessment needs to be distinguished expert on lethalityPhD. Deborah Stanley, PhD. from risk of reassault. Although the risk factors are overlapping, they are not exactly the Lawrence Bostrom on Websdale: Lethality Assessment Approaches: Reflections same.(Commentary on their Use and Ways Forward,2005. )

Howard Shaw, MD

Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.

Findings and Recommendations

Recommendations Linda J. Cimino Lori Rivenburgh Beau CCADV will facilitate the distribution of public information targeted 1. Thurnauer Pennitowards professionals (legal, public safety, medical and educators) Micca
Margaret Rosa of domestic violence homicides. Tonya Johnson 2. Brandon Dana CCADV will seek to strengthen the family violence information in

to heighten awareness of factors that contribute to the commission

Ronnithe Connecticut Law Enforcement Officers Field Manual, also known Selko as The Red Book. Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq.

WhileKenneth Edwards behavior may have been shocking to family and friends, a perpetrators there were precipitating factors that increased the likelihood that domestic violence would end in murder.
9

Findings and and Recommendations Findings and Recommendations Findings Recommendations

Weapons
Per CGS 46b-38b, police can seize any firearm in plain view at the scene of a domestic violence incident. In addition, the issuance of a protective order requires the surrender of weapons by the perpetrator. Currently, the surrender of any weapons in domestic violence cases can be made to anyone with a state permit to carry a pistol.

Judith Rossi, Esq. Gunshot wounds were the number one cause of death in all the domestic violence fatalities under review. According to Arthur Kellerman, MD, MPH of Emory University, H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. having a gun in theMD makes it three times more likely that someone will be murdered Howard Shaw, home by a family member or intimate partner ("Men, Women, and Murder: Gender-Specific Patrick Hynes, PhD. Differences in Rates of Fatal Violence and Victimization," Journal of Trauma 33, July 1992). Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.

Recommendations

Findings and Recommendations

Linda J. Cimino 1. Effective October 1, 2011, changes to CGS 29-36k regarding the Lori Rivenburgh pistols and revolvers will prohibit domestic violence transfer of perpetrators from surrendering their weapons to persons other Beau Thurnauer than law enforcement or a federally-licensed firearms dealer. Penni Micca Margaret Rosa recommendations for change as necessary. and make Tonya Johnson 2. The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee will Dana Brandon seek to add a representative from a gun advocacy organization to Ronni its committee. Selko Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. KennethOver a ten year period, guns were the number one Edwards
CCADV will evaluate the new law to determine its effectiveness

cause of death in domestic violence fatalities. (Connecticut Department of Public Safety, Family Violence Homicide Reports 2000-2009)

10

Findings and Recommendations

Training
The review committee held several discussions throughout the year on the high level of work provided by first responders, law enforcement, advocates and other professionals. Throughout these discussions, the Committee examined the training provided to each group. These conversations were not a criticism of the training that individuals Judith instead, the received; Rossi, Esq. Committee looked at what supplemental training they may H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. need to further assist victims. Securing additional resources to provide an enhanced response toShaw, MD violence was an on-going issue. Howard domestic It was determined that training and professional development must be provided Deborah Stanley, PhD. utilizing a cross-disciplinary, collaborative delivery model. Trainers should have Lawrence Bostrom a range of experience in domestic violence.
Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patrick Hynes, PhD.

ThePatricia Froehlich, Esq.the victim, offender or family experiencing domestic violence systemic response to Faith Vos Winkel is critical. The outcome is informed by the skill, training and professional development Al individual providing assistance. of the Harper, PhD.
Linda J. Cimino Lori Rivenburgh Beau Thurnauer Penni Micca

Margaret Rosa Tonya Johnson 1. CCADV will initiate discussions with the public safety sector to Dana Brandon Ronnilethality. Selko Lisa Holden

Recommendations

identify training needs in the areas of stalking, harassment, and

Linda Blozie will provide advanced training on trauma informed services 2. CCADV to Whalen Maureen its member domestic violence agencies. Alison Cares, PhD. 3. CCADV will partner with the Connecticut Bar Association to identify Matthew DeMichele professional development opportunities. Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards

Everyone who comes in contact with a domestic violence victim must have the necessary skills and training to respond in the most effective manner. We must be fully prepared as this may be a victims only opportunity to get help.
11

Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations Data Findings

A Decade in Review Information for these ten year data findings has been provided by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Safety. It may not be inclusive of all fatalities but is the most reliable source of information at this time. The review committee began by examining cases that have occurred from 2000 through 2009. The total number of intimate partner fatalities is 146. As the distribution shows, the number of domestic homicides in Connecticut waivered throughout the years. The highest incidence of domestic violence fatalities occurred in 2004 (n=21) while the lowest Girlfriend/Boyfriend number occurred in 2009 (n=10). From 2006-2009, there is an overall decline of 18.75%.
25 20 15

Live-In

ndings and Recommendations Howard Shaw, MD.

10 Judith Rossi, Esq. Child In Common Lisa Holden 5 Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence0Bostrom Shirley Bostrom 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2000 Spouse Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Murder/Suicides Linda Blozie 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 Margaret Rosa Research has indicated that a significant percentage of homicide-suicides are preceded by Deborah Stanley,battering experienced by the female victim (Currens, 1991). a long history of PhD. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Faith Vos Winkel Linda J. Cimino 42 cases H. Wayne Carver, MD were murder Howard Sovronsky suicides Penni Micca (29%) Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards 104 Beau Thurnauer cases were Patricia Froehlich, Esq. homicides Lori Rivenburgh (71%) Dana Brandon

12

Data Findings

Girlfriend/Boyfriend
Howard Shaw, MD. Judith Rossi, Esq. Live-In Lisa Holden Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Shirley Bostrom Child In Common Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Linda Blozie Spouse Margaret Rosa Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Faith Vos Winkel 0 Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards

10

2000-2009 20 30

Domestic Violence Intimate Partner Fatalities by City/Town

40

50

Howard Shaw, MD Judith Rossi, Esq. Lisa Holden Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Tonya Johnson Linda Blozie Margaret Rosa Deborah Stanley, P Patrick Hynes, PhD Faith Vos Winkel 60 Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, M Howard Sovronsky Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. 13 Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer

Data Findings

Victims Age and Gender 75% of all domestic violence homicide victims were 20-49 years old. 20-49 year olds make up only 40% of the overall population of Connecticut.

45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

Howard Shaw, MD. <20 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60+ Judith Rossi, Esq. Lisa Holden MD. Howard Shaw, Al Harper, PhD. Judith Rossi, Esq. Lawrence Bostrom Lisa Holden Shirley Bostrom Al Harper, PhD. Age CT Population Percentage of Domestic Violence Percentage of Maureen Whalen Lawrence Bostrom Range 2009 * Overall Population Homicide Total Overall Fatalities Ronni Selko 0-10 430,253 12.23% 0 0.00%Shirley Bostrom Tonya Johnson 10-19 484,695 13.78% 2 1.36%Maureen Whalen Linda Blozie 20-29 443,810 12.61% 41 27.89% Ronni Selko Margaret Rosa 30-39 428,303 12.17% 34 23.13% Tonya Johnson Deborah Stanley, PhD. 40-49 549,474 15.62% 35 23.81% Linda Blozie Patrick Hynes, PhD. 50-59 501,959 14.27% 23 15.65% Margaret Rosa 60+ 679,794 19.32% 12 8.16%Faith Vos Winkel Deborah Stanley, PhD. Total 3,518,288 100.00% 147 100.00% Linda J. Cimino Patrick Hynes, PhD. H. Wayne Carver, MD Faith Vos Winkel Howard Sovronsky Linda J. Cimino Penni Micca H. Wayne Carver, MD Kevin Dunn, Esq. Howard Sovronsky Kenneth Edwards * 2009 population data is per the State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health. Penni Micca Beau Thurnauer Kevin Dunn, Esq. Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Lori Rivenburgh Beau Thurnauer Dana Brandon Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh14 Dana Brandon

Data Findings

Offenders Age 69% of all homicides were committed by individuals in the age range of 20-49 years old. 20-49 year olds make up only 40% of the overall population of Connecticut. population of Connecticut.

50 45 40 Girlfriend/Boyfriend 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

Live-In

Howard Shaw, MD Judith Rossi, Esq. Lisa Holden Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Spouse Age CT Population Percentage of Domestic Violence Percentage of Shirley Bostrom Range 2009 * Overall Population Homicide Total Overall Fatalities Maureen Whalen 0-10 430,253 12.23% 0 0.00% Ronni Selko 10-19 484,695 3 30 0 13.78% 10 20 40 2.04% 50 60 Tonya Johnson 20-29 443,810 12.61% 34 23.13% Linda Blozie 30-39 428,303 12.17% 43 29.25% Margaret Rosa 40-49 549,474 15.62% 36 24.49% Deborah Stanley, P 50-59 501,959 14.27% 20 13.61% Patrick Hynes, PhD 60+ 679,794 19.32% 11 7.48% Faith Vos Winkel Total 3,518,288 100.00% 147 100.00% Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, M Howard Sovronsky Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. * 2009 population data is per the State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
30-39 40-49 50-59 60+

Child <20Common In 20-29

15

Findings

Data Findings

Gender The greatest number of homicide victims were female, while the greatest number of homicide perpetrators were male.

Homicide Victims

Girlfriend/Boyfriend

13% of homicide victims were male

Live-In
87% of homicide victims were female

Child In Common

Homicide Perpetrators

Spouse

10

20

10% of homicide perpetrators 30 40 were female

50

.
90 % of homicide perpetrators were male

q.

Howard Shaw, Judith Rossi, E Lisa Holden Al Harper, PhD Lawrence Bostr Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whale Ronni Selko 60 Tonya Johnson Linda Blozie Margaret Rosa Deborah Stanle Patrick Hynes, Faith Vos Wink Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carv Howard Sovron Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Es Kenneth Edwar Beau Thurnaue Patricia Froehli Lori Rivenburg Dana Brandon
16

Findings

Data Findings

Relationship Status 35% of all homicide victims were married to their perpetrator at the time of their death, whereas 25% of victims were living with their partner; 27% were identified as a girlfriend or boyfriend; and 13% had a child in common.

60 50 40 Girlfriend/Boyfriend 30 20 10 0

Live-In

D.

Child In Common
Cause of Death The cause of Spouse most of the victims was a gunshot wound(s) (n=58). Over death for half (n=74) were killed by a form of intimate contact such as via stabbing, strangulation or beating.

0
70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Gun

10

20

30

40

50

60

PhD. D.

MD y

Knife

Physical Force

Other

Esq.

17

Findings

Fatalities

Through this body of work, the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee honors all who have lost their lives to domestic violence. According to reports compiled by the Connecticut Department of Public Safety, the following individuals lost their lives due to intimate partner violence. This list does not include any children or bystanders who may have been killed as well. Sheila Alexander-Caldwell Sergia Alfinez Patricia Austin Girlfriend/Boyfriend Lisa Aviles Layla Banks Sharon Barnaby Michelle Barrows Live-In Shara Bartholomew Whitney Bass Michelle Beaulieu Judy Beckwith Francisca Benedetto Child In Common Vonda Bennings Christine Blakeslee Donna Bochicchio Monserrate Bonilla Spouse Lynn Bosert Cynthia Broadbent Debbie Brown Martha Brown 0 Shaneya Brown Jessenia Calderon Elizabeth Carlson Veronica Campos Ann Cassia Urime Ceku Jean Chapman Marie Chucia Page Chyung Robin Cloutier Rose Conrad Miriam Cortes Jose Cotto Laurie Courtemarch Donald Davis Christine DeFelice Joan Derrett Daayon Devane Catherine Donnelly Constance Doughty Barbara Eckert Brandi-Lynn Fambrough William Farrell Carol Ferenz Lisa Figueroa Mercedes Figueroa Holly Flannery Judy Gagliardi Sharon Gary Francoise Genesse Josephine Giamo Sierra Giorgi 20Timothy Godfrey40 30 Maria Rosa Gonzalez Marilyn Gordon Chelsea Hansley Simone Harris Robyn Hayes Diane Hoagland Renea Irvin Gulande Isaac Wendy Jackson-Perillo Maryneliz Jimenez Teresa Jimenez Jeannette Jones

10

50

60

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Findings

Fatalities

Rita Joyce Shalanda Joyner Ramona Kendall Donald Kennedy Brian Kimball Pauline Knighton Gina LaCouture Christina Laguer James Langley Mindy Leigh Decieta Leslie Latasha Logan Kelly Lombard Jennifer Magnano Lizsandra Martinez Sandra Massol Ciara McDermott Kirk McLeod Jenny McMechen Veronica McWillie Cornelia Meyer Adriene Celeste Montiero Lapreea Moore Alice Morrin Heather Mullins-Keltz Yaritzi Myers Nelita Nacuf James Newton Tiana Notice Jose Luis Silva Oliveira Belinda Parker Desti Parnell Ashley Peoples Ilda Margarita Perez Danielle Piazza Ann Pocevic Anh Qui Bui Amanda Realie Elizabeth Reynes Norma Rivers

Jessica Rodriguez Migdalia Rodriquez Donald Rogers Duprey Rosaura Elizabeth Ross Mayra Ruiz Susan Russell Gilberto Sanchez Aida Santiago Benno Schapira Daniel Shumaker Hazel Simmons Steven Sitton Judith Stevens Susan Stewart Robert Stowe Gina Sulser Danical Symons Shannon Tedone Maria Teixeira Analise Titus Pamela Trotter Harriet Turgeon Gumersinda Velez Debra Vigneau Willie Vines Kenneth Waldron Keith Watkins Ebony Weston Adrienne White Alquan White Twonna White Henry Whyte Robin Wilcox Tammy Williams Urszula Winiarski Patricia Woodland Michelle Wooley Wei Xia Zenobia Zubrowski

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The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee was funded in part by the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services. The opinions, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services.

CCA DV
Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence 90 Pitkin Street. East Hartford, CT 06108 860. 282.7899 www.ctcadv.org