Domestic Violence Report Connecticut 2012
'Upon Further Examination" Report written by Connecicut Coalition Against Domestic Violence Fatality commision, finds what myself and others have been saying loudly for many years, Connecticut for all of its collective intelligence and so-called rising awareness re partner violence, is falling short insofar as any improvements in actual numbers of DV fatalities and the serious assaults kidnappings stalkings which are precursors to DV murders. The thinking that once permeated such police depts as torrington once upon a time seems to be slowly making its way back into police departments and prosecutors offices, where the attitudes merely reflect the same general ignorance about the battered womans syndrome with a return of the deadly tendency to judge these INTIMATE VIOLENCE VICTIMS for puttting up with the smaller misdemeanor attacks and continuing to see an abusive partner caught up in his game of I will change" As a people, a micro society Connecticut is an abysmal failure in actual emotional awareness of the whys and hows of dating and partner violence and if anything the people in positions of power to impart a zero tolerance in arresting and sentencing these men are less aware of the lack of fault " of the usually female victims due to the breaking down syndrome that abusive men, particulary the most dangerous ones, utilze.
Content
further examination
upon
2012 Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee
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, Es Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
CCA DV
Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence
upon further examination
2012 Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee
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
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 2012, 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 the memory Tiana Angelique Notice, who lost her life on February 14, 2009 at the hands of her ex-boyfriend James Carter II. Alvin Notice, Tiana's father, continues to be an instrumental voice for victims of domestic violence. On January 13, 2012, James Carter II was sentenced to 60 years in prison for the murder of Tiana.
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
In this Report
Table of Contents
Judith Rossi, Esq. H. Wayne Carver II, M.D.
Acknowledgements Howard Shaw, MD
Patrick Hynes, PhD.
Page 2 Page 3 Pages 4-5 Pages 6-9 Pages 10-11 Pages 12-15 Page 16
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
Introduction Bostrom Lawrence
Deborah Stanley, PhD. Shirley Pierce Bostrom
Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Methodology Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.
FindingsJ. Cimino Linda and Recommendations
Lori Rivenburgh Beau Thurnauer Summary of 2011 Recommendations Penni Micca Margaret Rosa Tonya Johnson Data Findings Dana Brandon Ronni Selko Fatalities Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards
Acknowledgements and and Recommendations Findings Findings Recommendations
Members
Penni Micca, Chair Interval House Margaret Rosa, Coordinator CCADV Linda Blozie CCADV
This report is being issued by the Connecticut Judith Rossi, Esq. Coalition Against Domestic Violence and its H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Domestic Shaw, MD Howard Violence Fatality Review Committee. A special thanks to the family members of the Deborah Stanley, PhD. homicide victims who were willing to talk Lawrence Bostrom with us about their perceptions and experiences. Shirley Pierce Bostrom Thank you to Justin Norton and Lauren Valentine, Patricia Froehlich, Esq. CCADV interns who worked tirelessly to gather the criticalWinkel Faith Vos data necessary to review these fatalities. Those who serve on the Domestic Al Harper, PhD. Violence Cimino Review Committee also Linda J. Fatality deserve thanks for their commitment and Lori Rivenburgh dedication in sharing their time and expertise.
Penni Micca Margaret Rosa Tonya Johnson Dana Brandon Ronni Selko Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Patrick Hynes, PhD.
Larry Bostrom Survivors of Homicide Shirley Bostrom Survivors of Homicide Kathryn Ceruti State of CT-Court Support Services Division Linda J. Cimino State of CT-Office of Victim Services Kevin Dunn Howard Shaw, MD. Office of the Chief State’s Attorney Judith Rossi, Esq. Lisa Holden Kenneth Edwards Office of the Chief State’s Attorney Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Patricia Froehlich Shirley Bostrom Office of the State’s Attorney-Windham District Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Marjorie Hudson Tonya Johnson State of CT-Department of Public Health Linda Blozie Patrick Hynes Margaret Rosa State of CT-Department of Correction Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Tonya Johnson Faith Vos Winkel CCADV Linda J. Cimino Stanley J. Konesky, Jr. H. Wayne Carver, MD Police Officers Standards and HowardCouncil Training Sovronsky Penni Micca Dorian Long Kevin Dunn, State of CT-Department of Social Services Esq. Kenneth Edwards Lori Rivenburgh Beau Thurnauer Women’s Support Services Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Howard Sovronsky Community Health ResourcesDana Brandon Beau Thurnauer East Hartford Police Department Faith Vos Winkel State of CT- Office of the Child Advocate
Findings Thurnauer and Recommendations Beau
2
Introduction
Findings and Recommendations
According to the State Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Crimes Analysis Unit, 16 violent interactions resulted in 18 domestic violence related deaths from January 1, 2010-December 31, 2010. Domestic violence homicide is not diminishing in our state, rather the numbers remain steady from year to year. Upon the request of Connecticut residents Shirley and Larry Bostrom, the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) established a fatality review committee in October 2001. The Bostroms tragically lost their daughter, Margaret, at the hands of her abusive husband in 1996. Judith Rossi, Esq. When the Bostroms approached CCADV about implementing a review team, the premise was to H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. gather professionals who might not have otherwise collaborated for this process. In an effort to Howard Shaw, MD develop an understanding of barriers domestic violence victims face and to prevent these types Patrick Hynes, PhD. of fatalities, the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee was created.
Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee ( “Committee”) Since its inception, the has worked to Bostrom Shirley Pierce prevent future deaths by conducting multi-disciplinary, systemic examinations of
violent Froehlich, Esq. Patriciaintimate partner fatalities. Faith Vos Winkel The Committee’s objectives are to: Al Harper, PhD.
Findings and Recommendations
Howard Shaw, MD. Judith Rossi, Esq. Linda J. Cimino Lisa Holden • Enhance the safety of victims and accountability of batterers Lori Rivenburgh systemic gaps and barriers to service Al Harper, PhD. • Identify Lawrence Bostrom Beau Thurnauer • Implement coordinated community responses Shirley Bostrom Penni Micca • Influence public policy for intervention and prevention Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko The Committee Tonya Johnson brings together key individuals in social service, medical, education, advocacy Tonya Johnson and justice systems for detailed examinations of domestic violence fatalities. They do not and Linda Blozie Dana Brandon will not assign blame for fatalities to individuals, agencies or institutions. The perpetrator of the Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko Deborah Stanley, PhD. homicide is assumed to be ultimately responsible for the fatality. Lisa Holden Patrick Hynes, PhD. Linda Blozie Faith Vos Winkel Domestic violence homicides traumatize not only those close to the victim but also entire Linda death an Maureen Whalen communities. None of the individuals involved with these families would considerJ. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, MD Alison Cares, PhD. to a life where violence existed. Therefore, rather than investigate these acceptable conclusion Howard Sovronsky fatalities, the Committee conducts a reflective review by creating an environment conducive to Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca open and honest conversations for the purpose of effecting positive change. The Committee focuses Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. on communityEsq. responses to domestic violence such as services, policy, practice, training, information, Kenneth Edwards Kevin Dunn, communication, collaboration and resources. Members of the Committee also promote specialized Beau Thurnauer Kenneth Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. mobilizations against domestic violence within their own disciplines. Lori Rivenburgh Dana violence The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee defines a domesticBrandon
fatality as a death that arises from an individual’s efforts to assert power and control over his/her intimate partner.
3
Introduction
Findings and Recommendations
The fatalities in this report include: • Any homicide in which the victim was an intimate partner or former intimate partner of the individual responsible for the homicide • Any suicide of the perpetrator of an intimate partner fatality
Judith Rossi,from the first report, Upon Further Examination, (released in July 2011) continue to and findings Esq. H. Wayne Carver II, M.D.report should be considered to be its complement, not its substitution. be relevant; therefore this Howard Shaw, MD Patrick Hynes, PhD. Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD. Linda J. Cimino
This report is the Committee's second to issue findings and recommendations. The recommendations
Lori Rivenburgh Findings and Recommendations Beau Thurnauer Penni Micca Margaret Rosa 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 "Over Margaret Rosa600 people attended Megan's wake, Deborah Stanley, PhD.people from her Patrick Hynes, PhD. woman's group. work and her Faith Vos Winkel A woman who knew Megan Linda J. Cimino said Megan H. Wayne Carver, MD gave her the Howard Sovronsky strength to leave.” Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Erin Blatchley-mother of Megan Reyes Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
4
Methodology Findings and Recommendations
The Committee selects cases to be reviewed in which all criminal and civil cases pertaining to the victim and perpetrator are closed with no pending appeals. 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 and when the batterer’s tactics escalated over time, (2) to look at the red flags as they pertain to both the batterer and the victim, Judith Rossi, the community’s involvement in the case and (4) to make recommendations to (3) to review Esq. community stakeholders with H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. full expectation of implementation. The following outlines the collection tools employed by the Committee. Howard Shaw, MD
Patrick Hynes, PhD. Deborah Stanley, PhD. Medical Examiner reports are gathered to determine the cause of death, manner of death, age, gender Lawrence Bostrom and race of the victim. Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Police Reports Faith Vos Winkel Police reports relating to both the perpetrator and victim are requested from the city or town of the Howard Shaw, if known circumstances of domestic homicide occurrence. These reports are used to determineMD. Al Harper, PhD. Judith Rossi, Esq. violence existed Linda J. Ciminoprior to the fatality and to gather data regarding the circumstances surrounding Lisa Holden the homicide. Lori Rivenburgh Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Beau Thurnauer Criminal Justice Inquiry Shirley Bostrom Penni Micca At the State of Connecticut’s Judicial Branch Homepage (www.jud.ct.gov), the case look-up Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa information about all criminal Selko Ronni and family court proceedings throughout the feature provides Tonya Johnson Tonya there was state. From this information, it can be determined ifJohnson a history of restraining orders against Dana Brandon the perpetrator, pending divorce proceedingsLinda Blozie and child custody motions. Additionally, the Committee Margaret Rosa used data from the Connecticut Department of Correction homepage (www.ct.gov/doc) that provides Ronni Selko Deborah Stanley, PhD. public information regarding the sentencing status of offenders. Lisa Holden Patrick Hynes, PhD. Linda Blozie Faith Vos Winkel InterviewsWhalen Linda J. Cimino Maureen When possible, interviews are conducted H. Wayne Carver, MD members. Generally, the with friends and family Alison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky Committee appoints members who have direct experience with the loss of a loved one to assist Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca with the interviews. Previous to meeting with friends or family members, they are contacted via Howardtelephone to seek their permission Kevin Dunn, Esq. Sovronsky letter or to be interviewed and to explain the fatality review Kenneth is not mandatory in the data collection Kevin Dunn, Esq. process. Interviewing surviving friends and familyEdwards Beau Thurnauer Kennethbut the Committee recognizes that the insights that may be offered are unique and process, Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. an important part of getting to know the victim. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
Medical Examiner Reports
Findings and Recommendations
Media Reports Most media outlets in Connecticut provide some type of coverage when there is a domestic violence related fatality. CCADV maintains an inventory of all domestic violence related articles and those related to fatalities are cataloged for use in the review process.
5
Findings
Findings and Recommendations
While the Committee tracks all domestic violence homicides, staffing capacity dictates that only a small portion of these fatalities can be reviewed in depth. The Committee compiles a great deal of information on cases reviewed from public information sources such as police reports, media coverage, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and stories from families and friends. For those cases that are not reviewed, we gather a smaller amount of data, which may include demographic information, news accounts and the dates and circumstances of the homicide. Anecdotes from friends and family, coupled with detailed information from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010 form the basis for this year's findings and recommendations. Judith Rossi, E Judith Rossi, Esq. Chief findings from this year's reviews are as follows:
H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Howard Shaw, MD
H. Wayne Carv Howard Shaw,
Patrick Hynes, 1. In every case PhD. reviewed, family members, friends, and/or professionals were not fully aware Deborah Stanl DeborahescalatingPhD. of the Stanley, circumstances between the perpetrator and the victim. These individuals Lawrence Bost Lawrencerecognize the significance of the situation or the warning signs. did not Bostrom Shirley Pierce Bostrom Shirley Pierce
Patrick Hynes,
Lori Rivenburgh Findings and Recommendations PhD. Al Harper,
2. In cases reviewed,Esq.abusive relationship was established when the victim was a teenager. Patricia Froehl Patricia Froehlich, the According to the Faith Faith Vos Winkel State Department of Health “2011 Connecticut Health Survey” approximately Vos Wink 10% of all students surveyed reported that they were hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose Al Harper, PhD Al Harper, PhD. Howard Shaw, MD. by their boyfriend or girlfriend. Teens need the tools and Esq. knowledge necessary to develop Judith Rossi, Linda J. Cimin Linda J. Cimino healthy relationships and essential life skills. Holden Lisa
Lori Rivenburg Beau Thurnauer 3. Connecticut’s lack of culturally and linguistically systemic response has a detrimental effectBeau Thurnau on Lawrence Bostrom Penni Micca Penni Miccaability to access services. a victim's Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko 4. In most cases, the victim worked outside the home. Employers are uniquely positioned to Johnson Tonya Tonya Johnson Tonya Johnson link survivors to support and resources; time at work may be the only time the victim is away or Brandon Dana Dana Brandon Linda free Selkothe abusive partner’s direct influence. Blozie from Ronni Selko Ronni Margaret Rosa Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lisa Holden Lisa Holden 5. Surviving families and friends are deeplyPatrick Hynes, PhD. violence homicides/suicides, impacted by domestic Linda Blozie Linda Blozie yet most did not feel connected to any professional or organization who could immediately Faith Vos Winkel Maureen Whal Maureen Whalen assist them in many of the effects of the homicide. Cimino Linda J. Alison Cares, P Alison Cares, PhD. H. Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky Matthew DeM Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca Howard Sovro Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kevin Dunn, E Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Kenneth Edwa Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
6
Recommendations Findings and Recommendations
In this report, we found that the issues identified and the resulting recommendations fell into one of three broad categories: • Awareness and education • Assessment and intervention • Need for resources Awareness and Education
Judith Rossi, E
I, M.D. D
H. Wayne Carv There is a continuing need to better educate both the public and professionals who come Howard Shaw,
D.
PhD.
into contact with victims and perpetrators of domestic violence about the dynamics of Hynes, Patrick domestic violence. In particular, this education should include an awareness of risk factors Deborah Stanle for potential lethality. Lawrence Bostr
rom Esq.
Lori Rivenburg FindingsDomestic violence public awareness programs should contain features Findings and R and Recommendations directed to increasing Thurnaue Beau
There appears to be increasing public awareness of and professional training about domestic Patricia violence. However, the cases we reviewed this year highlight the need to expand this awareness Froehl Faith and make the links to appropriate responses. In many of the cases we reviewed, the indicators Vos Wink Al Harper, PhD for domestic violence were present, but there seemed to be a lack of any immediate referrals and/or interventions focusing on safety for victims and treatment for perpetrators. Linda J. Cimin
Shirley Pierce B
Tonya Johnson Public education targeted at potential victims and perpetrators of domestic violence should: Dana Brandon
awareness that the non-reporting of abuse by victims, or threatening behaviors of perpetrators, Micca Penni can not only impact their own safety, but the safety of others close to them. Non-reporting can Margaret Rosa also impact the safety of others who later enter into relationships with the abuser.
le y
Ronni Selko • Include the fact that risk of violence increases substantially during the time that aLisa Holden partner is leaving the relationship Linda Blozie • Be directed towards persons of all cultures, languages, and faiths Maureen Whal • Address the need to reduce the stigma of domestic violence Alison Cares, P Matthew DeMi The process of raising awareness should be embedded in the public education system so students Howard Sovron learn about these issues early in their lives before their transition to adulthood. Kevin Dunn, Es Kenneth Edwar Also, it is important to ensure that domestic violence education and awareness be facilitated
in a way that is reponsive to Connecticut’s underserved, underrepresented and/or not served communities, using multiple strategies and approaches.
7
Recommendations Findings and Recommendations
As individuals in the workplace have a unique opportunity to witness the impact of domestic violence on victims, both employers and co-workers have a role and responsibility to provide support and seek out help. Workplace culture can foster caring through resources such as employee assistance programs.
II, M.D. D
Training for professionals must deal with two issues: the first is recognizing domestic violence in all its forms—emotional, verbal and physical. The second is identifying high-risk situations that require intensive assessment and immediate intervention strategies to respond to the potential Judith Rossi, E escalation of aggressive and threatening behavior. Assessment and Intervention
D.
H. Wayne Carv Howard Shaw
PhD. m
There is a need to have appropriate tools available to those who work with victims and perpetrators of stalking to better assess the potential for lethal violence in their lives.Deborah Stanl
Patrick Hynes
trom
, Esq.
Lawrence Bost Shirley Pierce The prevalence of stalking is difficult to measure as not all offenses are reported to law enforcement,
and not all victims seek services. Oftentimes, victims view these acts of stalking as nuisance Patricia Froeh behavior and disregard them because they do not recognize the potential for increased violence. Vos Win Faith
commendations
Stalking behaviors can be varied in nature and if a victim does not possess an order of protection, Linda J. Cimin many of these behaviors would not be classified as illegal in Connecticut. Anyone working with Lori Rivenbur domestic violence victims should discuss the potential for increased violence when a victim Beau attempts to leave the relationship, with stalking as one of an abuser's tactics to gain control over Thurnau Penni the situation. Victims, their family and friends should have reliable information on the stalking Micca Margaret Rosa tactics used so that victims can pursue safety and supportive assistance. Advocates with domestic violence agencies should receive specialized training on stalking, including electronic stalking. Tonya Johnso There is a need to develop a more appropriate culturally and linguistically response to Selko Ronni individuals, experiencing and perpetrating violence, who are typically underrepresented, Lisa Holden underserved, not served or have limited English proficiency.
Al Harper, PhD
Findings and R
Dana Brandon
. ele y
Linda Blozie Maureen Wha It is vital to understand the complex ways in which people respond to domestic violence, given Alison their cultures and practices. In an effort to respond to the diverse experiences of victims, Cares, P Matthew DeM help must meet the unique needs of each population and/or community. At every juncture in the response to domestic violence, respondants must ensure that persons with Limited English Howard Sovro Proficiency (LEP) have meaningful access and an equal opportunity to obtain help. Kevin Dunn, E Kenneth Edwa
According to the 2010 United States Census, Latinos comprise the second largest demographic population in Connecticut. They also represent the second largest population of individuals receiving domestic violence services (CCADV Shelter and Host Home Statistical Report). There should be a Spanish specific statewide help line for domestic violence victims.
8
Findings and Recommendations Recommendations
Connecticut would be better served with leadership to implement training and intervention focused on underserved and/or underrepresented communities. Culturally relevant materials to increase outreach and awareness for underserved and underrepresented victims of domestic violence must be developed. Surviving families and friends are deeply impacted by domestic violence homicides and suicides, yet most do not feel connected to any professional or organization who could immediately assist them in the aftermath. While there are a host of service providers that work with victims throughout Connecticut, many intervene at the point of arraignment when there is a criminal case, or solely at the request of a surviving family member. Immediately after a homicide or homicide/suicide, surviving family members appear to have no designated person or organization to turn to respond to their immediate questions or concerns. To rectify this concern, the Committee recommends that they work with Connecticut’s victim services organizations to clarify who is responsible for immediately supporting surviving family members. Need for Resources
.
II, M.D. D
hD.
PhD. m strom
h, Esq.
It has been determined that community optimal success. commendations support for awareness and alliances are critical toviolence has been In many communities, education on domestic received Findings and R from domestic violence agencies, police, family counseling services, and the private sector working together as a team.
Every community where a domestic violence related homicide takes place should be supported to initiate awareness focusing on domestic violence prevention. It is recommended that CCADV provide resources, support, and expertise to assist that community in using the tragedy as a catalyst for action. Each community should create its own unique response that promotes an awareness of domestic violence to help make a difference in the prevention of future deaths.
D. ele ky
s
9
Summary of 2011 Recommendations
In July 2011, the Committee issued its first report, Upon Further Examination, which covered the Fatality Review's findings from its inception in 2000 through 2009. That report contained a series of findings and recommendations. The Committee is pleased to report that meaningful steps have been taken implement the recommendations. The following information highlights the major accomplishments per the recommendations of the 2011 Fatality Review Report:
udith Rossi, Esq.
Public . Wayne Carver II, M.D. Awareness oward Shaw, MD
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD.
awrence Bostrom hirley Pierce Bostrom
• CCADV initiated a public awareness campaign in 2011-2012 to increase Connecticut’s understanding of access to domestic violence services. In June, the Connecticut Law Tribune presented CCADV with their prestigious “Publisher’s Award ” in recognition of its efforts to help victims recognize the full range of services available to them.
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel l Harper, PhD.
• CCADV published "Reporting Domestic Violence in Connecticut: A Guide for Media." CCADV engaged Connecticut's journalists to discuss the effective use of the Howard Shaw, MD. media. Judith Rossi, Esq.
inda J. Cimino
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
Margaret Rosa onya Johnson ana Brandon
Lisa of the Child • CCADV, the Connecticut Commission on Children and the OfficeHolden Al Harper, PhD. Advocate co-sponsored "Domestic Violence Through the Eyes of a Child," which Lawrence Bostrom featured national expert Betsy McAlister Groves, Founder and Shirley Bostrom of the Executive Director Child Witness to Violence Project at Boston Medical Center. Lead child advocates, health Maureen Whalen professionals, policy makers and law enforcement deliberatedRonni Selko to develop over solutions and implement early intervention strategies for children exposed to domestic violence. Tonya Johnson Linda Blozie
Finding
onni Selko isa Holden
inda Blozie Maureen Whalen lison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele oward Sovronsky evin Dunn, Esq. Training enneth Edwards
• CCADV, in partnership with the Connecticut Bar Association and the Connecticut Judicial Margaret Rosa Branch, co-sponsored "Family Violence: Trauma, Trends and Triage." This forum brought Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick Hynes, to assess together policy makers, attorneys, advocates, judges and national and state expertsPhD. the status of domestic violence in our state with an aim to offer Faith Vos WinkelTopics systemic solutions. Linda and update, presented and discussed were coercive control, legislative response J. Cimino the H. view from the bench psychology of domestic violence, lethality considerations and a Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky and the bar.
Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. • CCADV, in partnership with the Connecticut Police Academy- Police Officer Standards and Lori Rivenburgh Training Council (POST) was one of ten nationally selected to implement Connecticut's Dana Brandon
Lethality Assessment Project (LAP). LAP is a two-pronged intervention process that makes use of a specialized lethality assessment instrument and an accompanying protocol to identify and respond to high risk cases of domestic violence. Starting in September 2012, trained police officers on the scene of a domestic violence incident
10
Findings and and Recommendations Findings 2011 Recommendations Summary ofRecommendations
will assess a victim's risk for serious injury or death using the one-of-a-kind Lethality Assessment Screen. Officers will then immediately link "high risk" victims to the community-based domestic violence victim services help line in their area with the goal of having victims receive program services.
udith Rossi, Esq.
• CCADV facilitated advanced training on trauma to its member domestic violence agencies to enable advocates to offer sensitive trauma services, which evaluate the role . Wayne Carver II, M.D. of trauma, deliver services to avoid unintentional re-traumatization, facilitate victim oward Shaw, MD participation and prioritize victim’s safety. • In September 2011, CCADV opened its Training Institute which has provided 65 trainings for over 1,500 participants including domestic violence advocates, prosecutors and public defenders, legal services attorneys, police officers, clinicians, state agency personnel and staff of other community based organizations. All trainings were designed to increase the capacity of those individuals and agencies who work Howard Shaw, MD. with domestic violence victims and offenders to respond in a more effective Judith Rossi, Esq. manner. Training topics included the impact of domestic violence on children, Lisa Holden electronic stalking, teen dating violence, trauma, strangulation and orders of protection.
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD.
awrence Bostrom hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel l Harper, PhD.
nd Recommendations
Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Public Policy Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen • CCADV's Executive Director co-chaired the Law Enforcement Response to Family Ronni Selko Margaret Rosa Violence Task Force which resulted in significant recommendations to create one Tonya Johnson onya Johnson uniform policy to be used by law enforcement when responding to Blozie violence Linda family ana Brandon incidents and violations of orders of protection. Margaret Rosa onni Selko Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick accountability isa Holden • CCADV successfully advocated for new laws that include increased Hynes, PhD. for Faith Vos Winkel domestic violence abusers enrolled in the Family Violence Education Program, the inda Blozie extension of restraining orders from six months to up to oneLindaandCimino year, J. enhanced Maureen Whalen H. Wayne Carver, MD strategies for locating offenders for service of process. In addition, the new laws will lison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky strengthen the violation of orders of protection and will improve safeguards for college Penni Micca Matthew DeMichele students who possess an order of protection. Kevin Dunn, Esq. oward Sovronsky Kenneth Edwards evin Dunn, Esq. • As a part of the “Annual Legislative Advocacy Day” sponsored by the National Beau Thurnauer enneth Edwards Patricia Capitol and then Network to End Domestic Violence, CCADV traveled to the nation’sFroehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh throughout the state to meet with Connecticut lawmakers to successfully garner their Dana Brandon support for the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which creates and supports
inda J. Cimino
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
Finding
comprehensive, effective and cost saving responses to the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.
11
Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations Data Findings
Statistics compiled by CCADV and the Committee are based upon the State of Connecticut, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, “Family Violence Homicides: A Summary of 2010 Incidents.”
This data represents all the domestic violence related deaths known to us at the time of this report. While the report includes statistics on all family violence victims and related persons such as udith Rossi, Esq. children and other family members, the Committee is reporting only on those crimes considered to be intimate H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. partner violence. It is important to note that 63% of all victims were in the process of Howard Shaw, MD leaving the abusive relationship when the fatality occurred. Gender
atrick Hynes, PhD.
Deborah Stanley, PhD. The greatest number of homicide victims were female while the greatest number of perpetrators awrence Bostrom were male.
hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.
Homicide Victims
1 homicide victim was male.
ori Rivenburgh and Recommendations
inda J. Cimino
eau Thurnauer enni Micca
Finding
17 homicide victims were female.
Margaret Rosa onya Johnson Dana Brandon
Ronni Selko isa Holden
inda 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 Homicide Perpetrators Linda Blozie Margaret Rosa 1 homicide perpetrator Deborah Stanley, PhD. was female. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Faith Vos Winkel Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. 15 homicide perpetrators Kenneth Edwards were male. Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
12
Findings and Recommendations Data Findings and Recommendations Findings
Age In 2010, victims were spread out relatively evenly between the age ranges while the majority of perpetrators were between the ages of 40-49.
udith Rossi, Esq.
. Wayne Carver II, M.D. oward Shaw, MD
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD. awrence Bostrom
hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel Harper, PhD.
nda J. Cimino
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 40-49 50-59 60+
VICTIM PERPETRATOR
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
10-19 20-29 30-39 and Recommendations
Relationship
Finding
argaret Rosa onya Johnson ana Brandon
onni Selko sa Holden
nda Blozie aureen Whalen ison Cares, PhD. atthew DeMichele oward Sovronsky evin Dunn, Esq. enneth Edwards
The majority of fatalities occurred between spouses followed by live-in partners. Other persons killed were an 80 year old grandmother and a 73 year old mother-in-law who both happened to be in the home when the fatalities occurred.
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
VICTIM PREPETRATOR
13
Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations Data Findings
Cause of Death Gunshot wounds remain the number one cause of death, closely followed by the more intimate form of contact, namely stabbing and physical force.
udith Rossi, Esq.
H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Howard Shaw, MD
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD. awrence Bostrom
hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel l Harper, PhD.
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
inda J. Cimino
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
nd Recommendations
Month of Death
Finding
Margaret Rosa onya Johnson ana Brandon
onni Selko isa Holden
The largest number of deaths occurred in May. No fatalities were recorded in either August or October.
inda Blozie Maureen Whalen lison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky evin Dunn, Esq. enneth Edwards
4 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0
14
Data Findings
Findin Fin
dith Rossi, Esq. Wayne Carver II, M.D.
ward Shaw, MD rick Hynes, PhD. borah Stanley, PhD.
wrence Bostrom
and Recommendations
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
rley Pierce Bostrom ricia Froehlich, Esq. th Vos Winkel
Harper, PhD. da J. Cimino i Rivenburgh
au Thurnauer
Findings and Recommen
nni Micca rgaret Rosa
nya Johnson na Brandon
nni Selko a Holden
Location of domestic violence fatalities.
da Blozie ureen Whalen son Cares, PhD. tthew DeMichele ward Sovronsky vin Dunn, Esq. nneth Edwards
15
Fatalities
When deaths occur from accidents or unnatural causes, we ask why the death occurred. In motor vehicle accidents we ask whether the driver was impaired or whether there was a problem with the automobile or road conditions. When someone dies unexpectedly with no apparent cause, we do everything possible to identify the cause and/or method of death. To make the necessary changes to avoid such deaths in the future, the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee sees it as their responsibility to find answers to these questions. The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee honors the following individuals who unnecessarily lost their lives due to domestic violence in 2010: Madeline Bisson Ignacia Delvalie Cynthia Dunn-Cannon Carmen Feliciano Rona Knight Olga Louniakova Bonnie Mackay-Belanger Tobin Melish Dia Palafox Enid Pitkins Allison Owen Shengyl Rasim Megan Reyes Patti Rothermel-Dore Roxanne Young Joan Vanacore Yeliza Vasquez Sandia Walters
Findings
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.
16
Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations
d Recommendations
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 Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence 90 Pitkin Street. East Hartford, CT 06108 Howard Sovronsky 860. 282.7899 Penni Micca www.ctcadv.org Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
CCA DV
upon
2012 Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee
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, Es Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
CCA DV
Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence
upon further examination
2012 Findings and Recommendations from the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee
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
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 2012, 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 the memory Tiana Angelique Notice, who lost her life on February 14, 2009 at the hands of her ex-boyfriend James Carter II. Alvin Notice, Tiana's father, continues to be an instrumental voice for victims of domestic violence. On January 13, 2012, James Carter II was sentenced to 60 years in prison for the murder of Tiana.
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
In this Report
Table of Contents
Judith Rossi, Esq. H. Wayne Carver II, M.D.
Acknowledgements Howard Shaw, MD
Patrick Hynes, PhD.
Page 2 Page 3 Pages 4-5 Pages 6-9 Pages 10-11 Pages 12-15 Page 16
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
Introduction Bostrom Lawrence
Deborah Stanley, PhD. Shirley Pierce Bostrom
Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Methodology Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.
FindingsJ. Cimino Linda and Recommendations
Lori Rivenburgh Beau Thurnauer Summary of 2011 Recommendations Penni Micca Margaret Rosa Tonya Johnson Data Findings Dana Brandon Ronni Selko Fatalities Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards
Acknowledgements and and Recommendations Findings Findings Recommendations
Members
Penni Micca, Chair Interval House Margaret Rosa, Coordinator CCADV Linda Blozie CCADV
This report is being issued by the Connecticut Judith Rossi, Esq. Coalition Against Domestic Violence and its H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Domestic Shaw, MD Howard Violence Fatality Review Committee. A special thanks to the family members of the Deborah Stanley, PhD. homicide victims who were willing to talk Lawrence Bostrom with us about their perceptions and experiences. Shirley Pierce Bostrom Thank you to Justin Norton and Lauren Valentine, Patricia Froehlich, Esq. CCADV interns who worked tirelessly to gather the criticalWinkel Faith Vos data necessary to review these fatalities. Those who serve on the Domestic Al Harper, PhD. Violence Cimino Review Committee also Linda J. Fatality deserve thanks for their commitment and Lori Rivenburgh dedication in sharing their time and expertise.
Penni Micca Margaret Rosa Tonya Johnson Dana Brandon Ronni Selko Lisa Holden Linda Blozie Maureen Whalen Alison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Patrick Hynes, PhD.
Larry Bostrom Survivors of Homicide Shirley Bostrom Survivors of Homicide Kathryn Ceruti State of CT-Court Support Services Division Linda J. Cimino State of CT-Office of Victim Services Kevin Dunn Howard Shaw, MD. Office of the Chief State’s Attorney Judith Rossi, Esq. Lisa Holden Kenneth Edwards Office of the Chief State’s Attorney Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Patricia Froehlich Shirley Bostrom Office of the State’s Attorney-Windham District Maureen Whalen Ronni Selko Marjorie Hudson Tonya Johnson State of CT-Department of Public Health Linda Blozie Patrick Hynes Margaret Rosa State of CT-Department of Correction Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Tonya Johnson Faith Vos Winkel CCADV Linda J. Cimino Stanley J. Konesky, Jr. H. Wayne Carver, MD Police Officers Standards and HowardCouncil Training Sovronsky Penni Micca Dorian Long Kevin Dunn, State of CT-Department of Social Services Esq. Kenneth Edwards Lori Rivenburgh Beau Thurnauer Women’s Support Services Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Howard Sovronsky Community Health ResourcesDana Brandon Beau Thurnauer East Hartford Police Department Faith Vos Winkel State of CT- Office of the Child Advocate
Findings Thurnauer and Recommendations Beau
2
Introduction
Findings and Recommendations
According to the State Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Crimes Analysis Unit, 16 violent interactions resulted in 18 domestic violence related deaths from January 1, 2010-December 31, 2010. Domestic violence homicide is not diminishing in our state, rather the numbers remain steady from year to year. Upon the request of Connecticut residents Shirley and Larry Bostrom, the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) established a fatality review committee in October 2001. The Bostroms tragically lost their daughter, Margaret, at the hands of her abusive husband in 1996. Judith Rossi, Esq. When the Bostroms approached CCADV about implementing a review team, the premise was to H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. gather professionals who might not have otherwise collaborated for this process. In an effort to Howard Shaw, MD develop an understanding of barriers domestic violence victims face and to prevent these types Patrick Hynes, PhD. of fatalities, the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee was created.
Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee ( “Committee”) Since its inception, the has worked to Bostrom Shirley Pierce prevent future deaths by conducting multi-disciplinary, systemic examinations of
violent Froehlich, Esq. Patriciaintimate partner fatalities. Faith Vos Winkel The Committee’s objectives are to: Al Harper, PhD.
Findings and Recommendations
Howard Shaw, MD. Judith Rossi, Esq. Linda J. Cimino Lisa Holden • Enhance the safety of victims and accountability of batterers Lori Rivenburgh systemic gaps and barriers to service Al Harper, PhD. • Identify Lawrence Bostrom Beau Thurnauer • Implement coordinated community responses Shirley Bostrom Penni Micca • Influence public policy for intervention and prevention Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko The Committee Tonya Johnson brings together key individuals in social service, medical, education, advocacy Tonya Johnson and justice systems for detailed examinations of domestic violence fatalities. They do not and Linda Blozie Dana Brandon will not assign blame for fatalities to individuals, agencies or institutions. The perpetrator of the Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko Deborah Stanley, PhD. homicide is assumed to be ultimately responsible for the fatality. Lisa Holden Patrick Hynes, PhD. Linda Blozie Faith Vos Winkel Domestic violence homicides traumatize not only those close to the victim but also entire Linda death an Maureen Whalen communities. None of the individuals involved with these families would considerJ. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, MD Alison Cares, PhD. to a life where violence existed. Therefore, rather than investigate these acceptable conclusion Howard Sovronsky fatalities, the Committee conducts a reflective review by creating an environment conducive to Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca open and honest conversations for the purpose of effecting positive change. The Committee focuses Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. on communityEsq. responses to domestic violence such as services, policy, practice, training, information, Kenneth Edwards Kevin Dunn, communication, collaboration and resources. Members of the Committee also promote specialized Beau Thurnauer Kenneth Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. mobilizations against domestic violence within their own disciplines. Lori Rivenburgh Dana violence The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee defines a domesticBrandon
fatality as a death that arises from an individual’s efforts to assert power and control over his/her intimate partner.
3
Introduction
Findings and Recommendations
The fatalities in this report include: • Any homicide in which the victim was an intimate partner or former intimate partner of the individual responsible for the homicide • Any suicide of the perpetrator of an intimate partner fatality
Judith Rossi,from the first report, Upon Further Examination, (released in July 2011) continue to and findings Esq. H. Wayne Carver II, M.D.report should be considered to be its complement, not its substitution. be relevant; therefore this Howard Shaw, MD Patrick Hynes, PhD. Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Faith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD. Linda J. Cimino
This report is the Committee's second to issue findings and recommendations. The recommendations
Lori Rivenburgh Findings and Recommendations Beau Thurnauer Penni Micca Margaret Rosa 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 "Over Margaret Rosa600 people attended Megan's wake, Deborah Stanley, PhD.people from her Patrick Hynes, PhD. woman's group. work and her Faith Vos Winkel A woman who knew Megan Linda J. Cimino said Megan H. Wayne Carver, MD gave her the Howard Sovronsky strength to leave.” Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Erin Blatchley-mother of Megan Reyes Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
4
Methodology Findings and Recommendations
The Committee selects cases to be reviewed in which all criminal and civil cases pertaining to the victim and perpetrator are closed with no pending appeals. 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 and when the batterer’s tactics escalated over time, (2) to look at the red flags as they pertain to both the batterer and the victim, Judith Rossi, the community’s involvement in the case and (4) to make recommendations to (3) to review Esq. community stakeholders with H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. full expectation of implementation. The following outlines the collection tools employed by the Committee. Howard Shaw, MD
Patrick Hynes, PhD. Deborah Stanley, PhD. Medical Examiner reports are gathered to determine the cause of death, manner of death, age, gender Lawrence Bostrom and race of the victim. Shirley Pierce Bostrom Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Police Reports Faith Vos Winkel Police reports relating to both the perpetrator and victim are requested from the city or town of the Howard Shaw, if known circumstances of domestic homicide occurrence. These reports are used to determineMD. Al Harper, PhD. Judith Rossi, Esq. violence existed Linda J. Ciminoprior to the fatality and to gather data regarding the circumstances surrounding Lisa Holden the homicide. Lori Rivenburgh Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Beau Thurnauer Criminal Justice Inquiry Shirley Bostrom Penni Micca At the State of Connecticut’s Judicial Branch Homepage (www.jud.ct.gov), the case look-up Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa information about all criminal Selko Ronni and family court proceedings throughout the feature provides Tonya Johnson Tonya there was state. From this information, it can be determined ifJohnson a history of restraining orders against Dana Brandon the perpetrator, pending divorce proceedingsLinda Blozie and child custody motions. Additionally, the Committee Margaret Rosa used data from the Connecticut Department of Correction homepage (www.ct.gov/doc) that provides Ronni Selko Deborah Stanley, PhD. public information regarding the sentencing status of offenders. Lisa Holden Patrick Hynes, PhD. Linda Blozie Faith Vos Winkel InterviewsWhalen Linda J. Cimino Maureen When possible, interviews are conducted H. Wayne Carver, MD members. Generally, the with friends and family Alison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky Committee appoints members who have direct experience with the loss of a loved one to assist Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca with the interviews. Previous to meeting with friends or family members, they are contacted via Howardtelephone to seek their permission Kevin Dunn, Esq. Sovronsky letter or to be interviewed and to explain the fatality review Kenneth is not mandatory in the data collection Kevin Dunn, Esq. process. Interviewing surviving friends and familyEdwards Beau Thurnauer Kennethbut the Committee recognizes that the insights that may be offered are unique and process, Edwards Patricia Froehlich, Esq. an important part of getting to know the victim. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
Medical Examiner Reports
Findings and Recommendations
Media Reports Most media outlets in Connecticut provide some type of coverage when there is a domestic violence related fatality. CCADV maintains an inventory of all domestic violence related articles and those related to fatalities are cataloged for use in the review process.
5
Findings
Findings and Recommendations
While the Committee tracks all domestic violence homicides, staffing capacity dictates that only a small portion of these fatalities can be reviewed in depth. The Committee compiles a great deal of information on cases reviewed from public information sources such as police reports, media coverage, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and stories from families and friends. For those cases that are not reviewed, we gather a smaller amount of data, which may include demographic information, news accounts and the dates and circumstances of the homicide. Anecdotes from friends and family, coupled with detailed information from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010 form the basis for this year's findings and recommendations. Judith Rossi, E Judith Rossi, Esq. Chief findings from this year's reviews are as follows:
H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Howard Shaw, MD
H. Wayne Carv Howard Shaw,
Patrick Hynes, 1. In every case PhD. reviewed, family members, friends, and/or professionals were not fully aware Deborah Stanl DeborahescalatingPhD. of the Stanley, circumstances between the perpetrator and the victim. These individuals Lawrence Bost Lawrencerecognize the significance of the situation or the warning signs. did not Bostrom Shirley Pierce Bostrom Shirley Pierce
Patrick Hynes,
Lori Rivenburgh Findings and Recommendations PhD. Al Harper,
2. In cases reviewed,Esq.abusive relationship was established when the victim was a teenager. Patricia Froehl Patricia Froehlich, the According to the Faith Faith Vos Winkel State Department of Health “2011 Connecticut Health Survey” approximately Vos Wink 10% of all students surveyed reported that they were hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose Al Harper, PhD Al Harper, PhD. Howard Shaw, MD. by their boyfriend or girlfriend. Teens need the tools and Esq. knowledge necessary to develop Judith Rossi, Linda J. Cimin Linda J. Cimino healthy relationships and essential life skills. Holden Lisa
Lori Rivenburg Beau Thurnauer 3. Connecticut’s lack of culturally and linguistically systemic response has a detrimental effectBeau Thurnau on Lawrence Bostrom Penni Micca Penni Miccaability to access services. a victim's Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen Margaret Rosa Margaret Rosa Ronni Selko 4. In most cases, the victim worked outside the home. Employers are uniquely positioned to Johnson Tonya Tonya Johnson Tonya Johnson link survivors to support and resources; time at work may be the only time the victim is away or Brandon Dana Dana Brandon Linda free Selkothe abusive partner’s direct influence. Blozie from Ronni Selko Ronni Margaret Rosa Deborah Stanley, PhD. Lisa Holden Lisa Holden 5. Surviving families and friends are deeplyPatrick Hynes, PhD. violence homicides/suicides, impacted by domestic Linda Blozie Linda Blozie yet most did not feel connected to any professional or organization who could immediately Faith Vos Winkel Maureen Whal Maureen Whalen assist them in many of the effects of the homicide. Cimino Linda J. Alison Cares, P Alison Cares, PhD. H. Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky Matthew DeM Matthew DeMichele Penni Micca Howard Sovro Howard Sovronsky Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kevin Dunn, E Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Kenneth Edwa Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
6
Recommendations Findings and Recommendations
In this report, we found that the issues identified and the resulting recommendations fell into one of three broad categories: • Awareness and education • Assessment and intervention • Need for resources Awareness and Education
Judith Rossi, E
I, M.D. D
H. Wayne Carv There is a continuing need to better educate both the public and professionals who come Howard Shaw,
D.
PhD.
into contact with victims and perpetrators of domestic violence about the dynamics of Hynes, Patrick domestic violence. In particular, this education should include an awareness of risk factors Deborah Stanle for potential lethality. Lawrence Bostr
rom Esq.
Lori Rivenburg FindingsDomestic violence public awareness programs should contain features Findings and R and Recommendations directed to increasing Thurnaue Beau
There appears to be increasing public awareness of and professional training about domestic Patricia violence. However, the cases we reviewed this year highlight the need to expand this awareness Froehl Faith and make the links to appropriate responses. In many of the cases we reviewed, the indicators Vos Wink Al Harper, PhD for domestic violence were present, but there seemed to be a lack of any immediate referrals and/or interventions focusing on safety for victims and treatment for perpetrators. Linda J. Cimin
Shirley Pierce B
Tonya Johnson Public education targeted at potential victims and perpetrators of domestic violence should: Dana Brandon
awareness that the non-reporting of abuse by victims, or threatening behaviors of perpetrators, Micca Penni can not only impact their own safety, but the safety of others close to them. Non-reporting can Margaret Rosa also impact the safety of others who later enter into relationships with the abuser.
le y
Ronni Selko • Include the fact that risk of violence increases substantially during the time that aLisa Holden partner is leaving the relationship Linda Blozie • Be directed towards persons of all cultures, languages, and faiths Maureen Whal • Address the need to reduce the stigma of domestic violence Alison Cares, P Matthew DeMi The process of raising awareness should be embedded in the public education system so students Howard Sovron learn about these issues early in their lives before their transition to adulthood. Kevin Dunn, Es Kenneth Edwar Also, it is important to ensure that domestic violence education and awareness be facilitated
in a way that is reponsive to Connecticut’s underserved, underrepresented and/or not served communities, using multiple strategies and approaches.
7
Recommendations Findings and Recommendations
As individuals in the workplace have a unique opportunity to witness the impact of domestic violence on victims, both employers and co-workers have a role and responsibility to provide support and seek out help. Workplace culture can foster caring through resources such as employee assistance programs.
II, M.D. D
Training for professionals must deal with two issues: the first is recognizing domestic violence in all its forms—emotional, verbal and physical. The second is identifying high-risk situations that require intensive assessment and immediate intervention strategies to respond to the potential Judith Rossi, E escalation of aggressive and threatening behavior. Assessment and Intervention
D.
H. Wayne Carv Howard Shaw
PhD. m
There is a need to have appropriate tools available to those who work with victims and perpetrators of stalking to better assess the potential for lethal violence in their lives.Deborah Stanl
Patrick Hynes
trom
, Esq.
Lawrence Bost Shirley Pierce The prevalence of stalking is difficult to measure as not all offenses are reported to law enforcement,
and not all victims seek services. Oftentimes, victims view these acts of stalking as nuisance Patricia Froeh behavior and disregard them because they do not recognize the potential for increased violence. Vos Win Faith
commendations
Stalking behaviors can be varied in nature and if a victim does not possess an order of protection, Linda J. Cimin many of these behaviors would not be classified as illegal in Connecticut. Anyone working with Lori Rivenbur domestic violence victims should discuss the potential for increased violence when a victim Beau attempts to leave the relationship, with stalking as one of an abuser's tactics to gain control over Thurnau Penni the situation. Victims, their family and friends should have reliable information on the stalking Micca Margaret Rosa tactics used so that victims can pursue safety and supportive assistance. Advocates with domestic violence agencies should receive specialized training on stalking, including electronic stalking. Tonya Johnso There is a need to develop a more appropriate culturally and linguistically response to Selko Ronni individuals, experiencing and perpetrating violence, who are typically underrepresented, Lisa Holden underserved, not served or have limited English proficiency.
Al Harper, PhD
Findings and R
Dana Brandon
. ele y
Linda Blozie Maureen Wha It is vital to understand the complex ways in which people respond to domestic violence, given Alison their cultures and practices. In an effort to respond to the diverse experiences of victims, Cares, P Matthew DeM help must meet the unique needs of each population and/or community. At every juncture in the response to domestic violence, respondants must ensure that persons with Limited English Howard Sovro Proficiency (LEP) have meaningful access and an equal opportunity to obtain help. Kevin Dunn, E Kenneth Edwa
According to the 2010 United States Census, Latinos comprise the second largest demographic population in Connecticut. They also represent the second largest population of individuals receiving domestic violence services (CCADV Shelter and Host Home Statistical Report). There should be a Spanish specific statewide help line for domestic violence victims.
8
Findings and Recommendations Recommendations
Connecticut would be better served with leadership to implement training and intervention focused on underserved and/or underrepresented communities. Culturally relevant materials to increase outreach and awareness for underserved and underrepresented victims of domestic violence must be developed. Surviving families and friends are deeply impacted by domestic violence homicides and suicides, yet most do not feel connected to any professional or organization who could immediately assist them in the aftermath. While there are a host of service providers that work with victims throughout Connecticut, many intervene at the point of arraignment when there is a criminal case, or solely at the request of a surviving family member. Immediately after a homicide or homicide/suicide, surviving family members appear to have no designated person or organization to turn to respond to their immediate questions or concerns. To rectify this concern, the Committee recommends that they work with Connecticut’s victim services organizations to clarify who is responsible for immediately supporting surviving family members. Need for Resources
.
II, M.D. D
hD.
PhD. m strom
h, Esq.
It has been determined that community optimal success. commendations support for awareness and alliances are critical toviolence has been In many communities, education on domestic received Findings and R from domestic violence agencies, police, family counseling services, and the private sector working together as a team.
Every community where a domestic violence related homicide takes place should be supported to initiate awareness focusing on domestic violence prevention. It is recommended that CCADV provide resources, support, and expertise to assist that community in using the tragedy as a catalyst for action. Each community should create its own unique response that promotes an awareness of domestic violence to help make a difference in the prevention of future deaths.
D. ele ky
s
9
Summary of 2011 Recommendations
In July 2011, the Committee issued its first report, Upon Further Examination, which covered the Fatality Review's findings from its inception in 2000 through 2009. That report contained a series of findings and recommendations. The Committee is pleased to report that meaningful steps have been taken implement the recommendations. The following information highlights the major accomplishments per the recommendations of the 2011 Fatality Review Report:
udith Rossi, Esq.
Public . Wayne Carver II, M.D. Awareness oward Shaw, MD
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD.
awrence Bostrom hirley Pierce Bostrom
• CCADV initiated a public awareness campaign in 2011-2012 to increase Connecticut’s understanding of access to domestic violence services. In June, the Connecticut Law Tribune presented CCADV with their prestigious “Publisher’s Award ” in recognition of its efforts to help victims recognize the full range of services available to them.
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel l Harper, PhD.
• CCADV published "Reporting Domestic Violence in Connecticut: A Guide for Media." CCADV engaged Connecticut's journalists to discuss the effective use of the Howard Shaw, MD. media. Judith Rossi, Esq.
inda J. Cimino
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
Margaret Rosa onya Johnson ana Brandon
Lisa of the Child • CCADV, the Connecticut Commission on Children and the OfficeHolden Al Harper, PhD. Advocate co-sponsored "Domestic Violence Through the Eyes of a Child," which Lawrence Bostrom featured national expert Betsy McAlister Groves, Founder and Shirley Bostrom of the Executive Director Child Witness to Violence Project at Boston Medical Center. Lead child advocates, health Maureen Whalen professionals, policy makers and law enforcement deliberatedRonni Selko to develop over solutions and implement early intervention strategies for children exposed to domestic violence. Tonya Johnson Linda Blozie
Finding
onni Selko isa Holden
inda Blozie Maureen Whalen lison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele oward Sovronsky evin Dunn, Esq. Training enneth Edwards
• CCADV, in partnership with the Connecticut Bar Association and the Connecticut Judicial Margaret Rosa Branch, co-sponsored "Family Violence: Trauma, Trends and Triage." This forum brought Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick Hynes, to assess together policy makers, attorneys, advocates, judges and national and state expertsPhD. the status of domestic violence in our state with an aim to offer Faith Vos WinkelTopics systemic solutions. Linda and update, presented and discussed were coercive control, legislative response J. Cimino the H. view from the bench psychology of domestic violence, lethality considerations and a Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky and the bar.
Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. • CCADV, in partnership with the Connecticut Police Academy- Police Officer Standards and Lori Rivenburgh Training Council (POST) was one of ten nationally selected to implement Connecticut's Dana Brandon
Lethality Assessment Project (LAP). LAP is a two-pronged intervention process that makes use of a specialized lethality assessment instrument and an accompanying protocol to identify and respond to high risk cases of domestic violence. Starting in September 2012, trained police officers on the scene of a domestic violence incident
10
Findings and and Recommendations Findings 2011 Recommendations Summary ofRecommendations
will assess a victim's risk for serious injury or death using the one-of-a-kind Lethality Assessment Screen. Officers will then immediately link "high risk" victims to the community-based domestic violence victim services help line in their area with the goal of having victims receive program services.
udith Rossi, Esq.
• CCADV facilitated advanced training on trauma to its member domestic violence agencies to enable advocates to offer sensitive trauma services, which evaluate the role . Wayne Carver II, M.D. of trauma, deliver services to avoid unintentional re-traumatization, facilitate victim oward Shaw, MD participation and prioritize victim’s safety. • In September 2011, CCADV opened its Training Institute which has provided 65 trainings for over 1,500 participants including domestic violence advocates, prosecutors and public defenders, legal services attorneys, police officers, clinicians, state agency personnel and staff of other community based organizations. All trainings were designed to increase the capacity of those individuals and agencies who work Howard Shaw, MD. with domestic violence victims and offenders to respond in a more effective Judith Rossi, Esq. manner. Training topics included the impact of domestic violence on children, Lisa Holden electronic stalking, teen dating violence, trauma, strangulation and orders of protection.
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD.
awrence Bostrom hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel l Harper, PhD.
nd Recommendations
Al Harper, PhD. Lawrence Bostrom Public Policy Shirley Bostrom Maureen Whalen • CCADV's Executive Director co-chaired the Law Enforcement Response to Family Ronni Selko Margaret Rosa Violence Task Force which resulted in significant recommendations to create one Tonya Johnson onya Johnson uniform policy to be used by law enforcement when responding to Blozie violence Linda family ana Brandon incidents and violations of orders of protection. Margaret Rosa onni Selko Deborah Stanley, PhD. Patrick accountability isa Holden • CCADV successfully advocated for new laws that include increased Hynes, PhD. for Faith Vos Winkel domestic violence abusers enrolled in the Family Violence Education Program, the inda Blozie extension of restraining orders from six months to up to oneLindaandCimino year, J. enhanced Maureen Whalen H. Wayne Carver, MD strategies for locating offenders for service of process. In addition, the new laws will lison Cares, PhD. Howard Sovronsky strengthen the violation of orders of protection and will improve safeguards for college Penni Micca Matthew DeMichele students who possess an order of protection. Kevin Dunn, Esq. oward Sovronsky Kenneth Edwards evin Dunn, Esq. • As a part of the “Annual Legislative Advocacy Day” sponsored by the National Beau Thurnauer enneth Edwards Patricia Capitol and then Network to End Domestic Violence, CCADV traveled to the nation’sFroehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh throughout the state to meet with Connecticut lawmakers to successfully garner their Dana Brandon support for the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which creates and supports
inda J. Cimino
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
Finding
comprehensive, effective and cost saving responses to the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.
11
Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations Data Findings
Statistics compiled by CCADV and the Committee are based upon the State of Connecticut, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, “Family Violence Homicides: A Summary of 2010 Incidents.”
This data represents all the domestic violence related deaths known to us at the time of this report. While the report includes statistics on all family violence victims and related persons such as udith Rossi, Esq. children and other family members, the Committee is reporting only on those crimes considered to be intimate H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. partner violence. It is important to note that 63% of all victims were in the process of Howard Shaw, MD leaving the abusive relationship when the fatality occurred. Gender
atrick Hynes, PhD.
Deborah Stanley, PhD. The greatest number of homicide victims were female while the greatest number of perpetrators awrence Bostrom were male.
hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel Al Harper, PhD.
Homicide Victims
1 homicide victim was male.
ori Rivenburgh and Recommendations
inda J. Cimino
eau Thurnauer enni Micca
Finding
17 homicide victims were female.
Margaret Rosa onya Johnson Dana Brandon
Ronni Selko isa Holden
inda 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 Homicide Perpetrators Linda Blozie Margaret Rosa 1 homicide perpetrator Deborah Stanley, PhD. was female. Patrick Hynes, PhD. Faith Vos Winkel Linda J. Cimino H. Wayne Carver, MD Howard Sovronsky Penni Micca Kevin Dunn, Esq. 15 homicide perpetrators Kenneth Edwards were male. Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
12
Findings and Recommendations Data Findings and Recommendations Findings
Age In 2010, victims were spread out relatively evenly between the age ranges while the majority of perpetrators were between the ages of 40-49.
udith Rossi, Esq.
. Wayne Carver II, M.D. oward Shaw, MD
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD. awrence Bostrom
hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel Harper, PhD.
nda J. Cimino
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 40-49 50-59 60+
VICTIM PERPETRATOR
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
10-19 20-29 30-39 and Recommendations
Relationship
Finding
argaret Rosa onya Johnson ana Brandon
onni Selko sa Holden
nda Blozie aureen Whalen ison Cares, PhD. atthew DeMichele oward Sovronsky evin Dunn, Esq. enneth Edwards
The majority of fatalities occurred between spouses followed by live-in partners. Other persons killed were an 80 year old grandmother and a 73 year old mother-in-law who both happened to be in the home when the fatalities occurred.
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
VICTIM PREPETRATOR
13
Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations Data Findings
Cause of Death Gunshot wounds remain the number one cause of death, closely followed by the more intimate form of contact, namely stabbing and physical force.
udith Rossi, Esq.
H. Wayne Carver II, M.D. Howard Shaw, MD
atrick Hynes, PhD.
eborah Stanley, PhD. awrence Bostrom
hirley Pierce Bostrom
atricia Froehlich, Esq. aith Vos Winkel l Harper, PhD.
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
inda J. Cimino
ori Rivenburgh eau Thurnauer enni Micca
nd Recommendations
Month of Death
Finding
Margaret Rosa onya Johnson ana Brandon
onni Selko isa Holden
The largest number of deaths occurred in May. No fatalities were recorded in either August or October.
inda Blozie Maureen Whalen lison Cares, PhD. Matthew DeMichele Howard Sovronsky evin Dunn, Esq. enneth Edwards
4 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0
14
Data Findings
Findin Fin
dith Rossi, Esq. Wayne Carver II, M.D.
ward Shaw, MD rick Hynes, PhD. borah Stanley, PhD.
wrence Bostrom
and Recommendations
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
rley Pierce Bostrom ricia Froehlich, Esq. th Vos Winkel
Harper, PhD. da J. Cimino i Rivenburgh
au Thurnauer
Findings and Recommen
nni Micca rgaret Rosa
nya Johnson na Brandon
nni Selko a Holden
Location of domestic violence fatalities.
da Blozie ureen Whalen son Cares, PhD. tthew DeMichele ward Sovronsky vin Dunn, Esq. nneth Edwards
15
Fatalities
When deaths occur from accidents or unnatural causes, we ask why the death occurred. In motor vehicle accidents we ask whether the driver was impaired or whether there was a problem with the automobile or road conditions. When someone dies unexpectedly with no apparent cause, we do everything possible to identify the cause and/or method of death. To make the necessary changes to avoid such deaths in the future, the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee sees it as their responsibility to find answers to these questions. The Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee honors the following individuals who unnecessarily lost their lives due to domestic violence in 2010: Madeline Bisson Ignacia Delvalie Cynthia Dunn-Cannon Carmen Feliciano Rona Knight Olga Louniakova Bonnie Mackay-Belanger Tobin Melish Dia Palafox Enid Pitkins Allison Owen Shengyl Rasim Megan Reyes Patti Rothermel-Dore Roxanne Young Joan Vanacore Yeliza Vasquez Sandia Walters
Findings
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.
16
Findings and and Recommendations Findings Recommendations
d Recommendations
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 Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence 90 Pitkin Street. East Hartford, CT 06108 Howard Sovronsky 860. 282.7899 Penni Micca www.ctcadv.org Kevin Dunn, Esq. Kenneth Edwards Beau Thurnauer Patricia Froehlich, Esq. Lori Rivenburgh Dana Brandon
CCA DV
