Domestic violence-related deaths in Colorado decreased in 2023, according to a report by the Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board. The report, released by the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, noted that these fatalities accounted for about 11% of all homicides in the state.
The data showed that 58 individuals died due to domestic violence incidents last year. This number represents a decline compared to the previous two years but is consistent with figures from before the pandemic. While overall violent crime and homicide rates fell in 2023, domestic violence fatalities did not decrease at the same rate.
The board reviewed 47 cases from last year. Among these, 30 victims were killed by current or former intimate partners. Seven additional victims, referred to as collateral victims, also lost their lives; more than half were children of those involved.
Attorney General Phil Weiser emphasized the need for continued efforts against domestic violence: “Even as we see a decrease in domestic violence fatalities, we cannot be complacent,” he said. “Every life lost is a tragedy, and we must continue our efforts to combat domestic violence with a sense of urgency.”
The report highlighted that most perpetrators were male and firearms were commonly used. It also pointed out geographic disparities, with rural counties experiencing higher rates of such fatalities than urban areas.
For the first time, data on protection orders was included. A fifth of couples had active or expired orders; only one was active during a fatality incident. This suggests limited civil legal system involvement among victims but indicates potential protective benefits when orders are active.
Recommendations from the board include enhanced training for court professionals and expanded use of risk assessment tools. Other suggestions involve implementing victim notification systems regarding firearm purchases and addressing economic abuse issues like coerced debt.
Key findings also noted that victim ages ranged from 14 to 70 years old while perpetrators were between 15 and 81 years old. Pregnancy among adolescent girls was identified as a significant risk factor.
Carmen Lewis from Rise Above Violence commented on prevention efforts: “I am proud of the work we do on the Colorado Fatality Review Board... Domestic violence fatality review boards play such a critical role in preventing future deaths.”
Established by the Colorado General Assembly in 2017, the board aims to examine data on these tragedies and make policy recommendations. Last year saw $3 million allocated for programs addressing domestic violence statewide.
Additionally, earlier this month Attorney General Weiser announced funding awarded to TESSA for managing El Paso County’s new review board over two years.
For more information or resources related to domestic violence support within Colorado visit www.colorado.gov/dolaw or call (800)799-SAFE(7233).